MONTROSE-based Crawford Architecture has officially transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
The move puts the firm’s future in the hands of its team, giving everyone an opportunity to be a part of continued growth and success.
Employee ownership is becoming an increasingly popular succession model for architectural practices. After almost 40 years as a family-run firm, Crawford Architecture will now be 100% owned by its Employee Ownership Trust.
Founded in 1987 by John Crawford, Crawford Architecture has delivered projects for clients ranging from global companies such as GSK, to local organisations including Montrose Port Authority.
The firm has helped to transform Montrose over the years through involvement in projects such as the regeneration of the old swimming pool into Montrose Playhouse – a cinema and arts venue as well as ongoing involvement in Project Montrose (ProMo) which is set to revitalise the town’s high street.
With John approaching almost 40 years in the business and son Kevin having played a key role in driving growth over the past 20 years, the practice decided it was time to look ahead and consider the best move to secure the long-term future of the company.
John can now look ahead into retirement knowing that the legacy remains and that the long-term future of the company is in place.
Transitioning to an employee owned model provides a ‘seamless’ succession plan and gives employees a direct stake in the firm’s future. Staff can also benefit from profit shares and enhanced career progression opportunities.
The move empowers the team of ten to influence the strategic direction, all while maintaining the core values that have defined the practice since its inception.
Director Kevin Crawford said, “We have built a fantastic team here, all of whom show the right attitude, are ambitious and I’m delighted we can give them this opportunity. Many of the team have been with us a long time and we feel this is a reward for that dedication.
“Transitioning to an EOT ensures the practice remains independent and allows our wider team to play a more active role in shaping our future. It’s an exciting time for everyone, and we’re looking forward to continuing our journey with employee ownership at the core of what we do.”
Senior architectural technologist Allanah Ogilvie added, “This move means we all have a voice in helping shape the firm’s future. We’re no longer just employees, we’re shaping something we believe in together and all aligned with a shared vision.”
David Paton, who has been part of the team for over 20 years, stated, “The EOT structure gives us a renewed sense of responsibility for the business. We’re all invested in its future and that brings a new level of motivation, commitment and drive to ensure continued growth and shared success.”
