Why We Chose Employee Ownership
When Fidler & Pepper Lawyers became an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), it was about far more than a change in ownership structure.
As People Resource and Strategy Director, I see first-hand the commitment, passion and dedication our people bring to the firm every day. For me, becoming employee-owned was about recognising that contribution and ensuring that the future of the business remains firmly in the hands of the people who help make it successful and at the heart of the community where we work.
It was also about protecting something that has always been incredibly important to us – our independence, our culture and our long-term future.
Protecting Our Independence and Future
By becoming employee-owned, the firm is now held in trust for the benefit of our employees. This means there is no external sale, no sudden shift in direction and no pressure for decisions to be driven by short-term commercial gain. Instead, we can continue making decisions that are right for our people, our clients and our communities for years to come.
Importantly, it also helps safeguard local jobs and ensures that the values and culture that have made Fidler & Pepper what it is today remain at the heart of the business.
What Employee Ownership Means for Our People
For those considering joining us, employee ownership offers something genuinely different.
It means becoming part of a business where people matter, where your contribution is valued and where you have the opportunity to build a rewarding long-term career.
Our employee ownership model supports:
- A true sense of purpose and belonging
- A stable and supportive working environment
- Investment in people and their development
- Opportunities for professional and personal growth
- The ability to share in the future success of the firm
Building Careers, Not Just Jobs
One of the things I am most passionate about is creating a working environment that enables everyone to thrive and one of the reasons employee ownership felt like the right choice for our firm is that it helps protect the culture we have worked hard to create. Over the years, we have developed a supportive and flexible working environment that recognises people have commitments and priorities outside of work. Whether through flexible working arrangements, investment in development opportunities or supporting wellbeing, we remain committed to creating an environment where people can thrive both professionally and personally.
Protecting the Culture We’ve Worked Hard to Create
“I know that culture isn’t created by policies alone. It’s built through the everyday experiences people have at work – feeling trusted, supported, able to balance their professional and personal responsibilities and grow their careers through learning and development, as well as having some fun along the way. Employee ownership gives us the opportunity to continue investing in the culture and values that make Fidler & Pepper a special place to work.”
— Joanne Godson, People Resource and Strategy Director
Strengthening Relationships with Clients and Communities
We are incredibly proud of the culture we have built at Fidler & Pepper Lawyers — one founded on teamwork, professionalism, trust and support.
We know that our clients often come to us during some of life’s most important moments. Building long-term relationships and providing trusted advice is at the heart of what we do. In the same way, we want our employees to feel they can build long-term careers with us, supported every step of the way.
An Exciting New Chapter for Fidler & Pepper Lawyers
Employee ownership represents an exciting new chapter for Fidler & Pepper Lawyers, but it doesn’t change who we are. If anything, it reinforces the values that have always guided us and will help to ensure we can continue being the firm our people and clients value for many years to come.”
As we continue on our journey, we remain committed to investing in our people, protecting our independence and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.
Interested in Joining Our Team?
As we continue to invest in our people and build for the future, we’re always keen to hear from individuals who share our values and are looking to develop their careers in a supportive and collaborative environment.
If you’d like to find out more about what it’s like to work at Fidler & Pepper Lawyers, take a look at our current vacancies. Even if there isn’t a role that’s quite right for you today, it’s worth keeping an eye on future opportunities as we continue to grow.
More Than a Change in Ownership: Protecting Our Future Through Employee Ownership