Published : 6 years ago, on 22/08/2018

Reinforces the company’s unique working culture that has led to its growth success 

4most, the leading risk analytics consultancy, today announces that it has sold majority ownership to an EOT (Employee Ownership Trust).

Co-founders Sisson and Somers, together with early investors Beechbrook Capital have sold 55% of the issued share capital to the Trust which will ultimately own the company for the benefit of staff. Sisson and Somers will remain on the board and continue to manage and run 4most Group.

Pioneered by the John Lewis Partnership, there are now over 300 British companies that have signed up to this structure. EOT’s are well recognised for boosting morale, improving incentives to work hard and encouraging all employees to make decisions that are in the company’s best interests.

The announcement is the latest undertaking by the company which has adopted numerous initiatives designed to encourage a more attractive and forward-thinking recruitment model. As well as operating with a relatively flat structure and offering agile working, 4most encourages their 150+ staff to broaden their skills beyond their day-to-day roles through continuous personal development. Other incentives include a busy calendar of social events with the highlight being a company-wide weekend team-building trip to Portugal each year, as well as a generous benefits package and annual bonuses linked to overall company performance.

4most, which was established in 2011, has seen strong levels of growth throughout its six-year history, ranking 22^nd in the most recent Sunday Times Fast Track league table for the fastest growing UK companies and 7^th in this year’s Profit Track 100.

Mark Sisson, CEO at 4most said: “I’m delighted that we have sold into an EOT structure. We looked at a number of more traditional shareholder exit options including further Private Equity investment as well as potential trade sales but ultimately felt the EOT structure was best suited to a people business. We also wanted to provide a legacy over the longer term that would provide a secure future for our employees and the EOT achieves this. Our key objective in setting up the company was to create a great place for people to work, and the significant growth we’ve undergone demonstrates that this mindset makes a significant contribution to overall success.

 “Financial Services are facing a battle to attract top talent, particularly amongst graduates who are looking for more in a career than just a 9-to-5. Companies don’t need to be within the creative industry to embrace a similar mindset when it comes to creating a supportive working environment, and it is by adopting a more forward-thinking approach that our company will thrive in the war for talent in the years ahead.”