OFR Consultants transition to Employee-Ownership model

OFR Consultants, the UK-based independent fire engineering consultancy, has transitioned to an Employee-Ownership Trust (EOT) model, with an employee-owned trust acquiring a controlling stake in the company.

The company will also continue to operate it’s Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) share option scheme.

In the announcement, OFR shared their aim of ensuring that colleagues can benefit both collectively and individually from OFR’s success.

This dual approach intends to reinforce the OFR’s long-term independence, empowers its people and demonstrates a commitment to rewarding employees at all levels of the business.

Impact on clients

OFR spoke of how it believes the announcement will impact its pre-existing client base: “Clients can expect the same trusted teams, high-quality service and innovative fire engineering solutions.

“The move strengthens governance and safeguards the independence that underpins OFR’s reputation, with no change to contracts or delivery.”

Impact on colleagues

Every OFR colleague is now a beneficiary of the trust, with their interests represented by employee representatives on the Board of the Trust.

This model means employees have a greater voice in how the business is run, as well as a share in its success.

Founder, OFR Consultants, Sam Liptrott’s statement

“Evolving into a partly owned EOT secures the best path forward for shareholders and staff.

“It safeguards our entrepreneurial spirit, guarantees independence and ensures we keep delivering outstanding projects while leading the fire engineering discipline.”

Graduate Fire Engineer, OFR Consultants, Antonela Colic’s statement

Antonela Colic, a Graduate Fire Engineer at OFR Consultants offered her perspective on the announcement: “The new model offers employees the chance to share in the company’s growth and rewards and supports OFRs intention to inclusivity in every aspect.

“As a young professional, this change gives me freedom to learn without the need to aim for an executive position to enjoy meaningful rewards.

“It’s a structure that values and rewards technical contribution and expertise, without needing to step into CEO or managerial roles and just climbing the ladder.”

OFR Consultants transition to Employee-Ownership model: Summary

OFR Consultants has shared its decision to transition to an Employee-Ownership Trust (EOT) model, with an employee-owned trust acquiring a controlling stake in the company.