Evolution Transitions to Employee Ownership

Evolution has announced details of a new Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), which will see its staff become majority owners of the business. It is believed to be the first of the major independent security systems integrators to implement an EOT scheme to secure its long-term growth aspirations.

Evolution, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2021, has set up the EOT for the future benefit of all employees. In keeping with similar schemes, the Trust is effectively acquiring 77% of the company, which will be paid for by ongoing company profits until the agreed purchase price is met. Every EOT member will then share in the profits for as long as they are part of the business.

Current owners and founders Richard Lambert and John Wust will retain 23% of the company to ensure management continuity and as a signal of their ongoing commitment to employees and customers alike.

“Our wish has always been to create an environment where everyone can grow and be a part of the success of Evolution and the EOT does exactly that,” Richard says. “John and I are extremely excited about the future, as we all join together as partners in our ever-evolving business.” 

Louise Gough, Group Director of HR and part of Evolution’s senior leadership team says the EOT provides several key benefits for staff: “Through our recruitment and people strategies, comprehensive training and development opportunities, and benefits programme, Evolution remains committed to taking care of our staff and providing them with a great place to work.”

Brendan McGarrity, Director of Evolution Risk & Design and the new EOT added: “The new EOT is another example of this, crucially providing every employee with a stable, long-term future, as well as providing all staff with the opportunity to become beneficiaries of the business’ future successes.”

Founded in 1996, Evolution has continued to grow and expand as a business, reporting a turnover of £30 million this year, and now employs more than 200 people across six offices in the UK, Ireland, and Europe. As part of its core business, it delivers Professional Services consultancy and expertise in Risk & Design for major defence and critical infrastructure projects.