August 14, 2024

Join Us for a Special Lunch & Learn: ESOP 101

Lunch & Learn: ESOP 101

We are pleased to invite you to an exclusive Lunch & Learn event, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the benefits of selling your business to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This event, hosted by JPMorgan Chase and The Menke Group, is designed specifically for business owners who are considering an ESOP as part of their succession planning strategy.

Event Highlights:

Trevor Gilmore, CEO of The Menke Group

Keynote Speakers:
- Trevor J. Gilmore: CEO of The Menke Group, the oldest and largest ESOP advisory firm in the United States. Trevor brings decades of experience in guiding business owners through the intricacies of ESOP transactions.
- Jason Bolt: Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase’s ESOP Advisory Group. Jason will provide insights into the financial and strategic considerations that make ESOPs a compelling option for business owners.

What You Will Learn:
- The fundamentals of ESOPs and how they can be used to sell your business.
- The tax advantages and financial benefits of transitioning to employee ownership.
- Real-life examples and success stories of businesses that have successfully implemented an ESOP.

Networking Opportunity: Connect with other business owners who are exploring ESOPs, share experiences, and discuss potential challenges and solutions.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Time: 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET
Location: JPMorgan Chase Client Center, L23, 560 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

RSVP by Friday, August 16, 2024 to secure your spot. For any questions, please contact Priscilla Lim at [email protected].

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights from leading experts in the ESOP field and take a significant step toward planning the future of your business.

Share this article:

Learn why an ESOP is better for You,
your Business, and your Employees

Upcoming Web Seminar

Facing Headwinds, Building Ownership:

How ESOPs Help Businesses Navigate Rising Costs, Market Uncertainty & Succession Planning.

Free 90-Minute Webinar for Business Owners, CFOs & Advisors

📉 The Economic Reality

Inflation. Tariffs. Tight labor markets. Cost of capital on the rise.

2025 is shaping up to be a year where strategic moves—not reactive cuts—will define the companies that come out stronger. If you’re a private company leader facing rising costs and succession pressures, now is the time to consider the unique benefits of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

🚀 What You’ll Learn

✅ ESOP 101: How it works, who qualifies, and why it’s more relevant than ever

✅ Countering Margin Pressure: Offset cost increases from tariffs and wages using ESOP tax incentives

✅ Tax Strategies for Owners & Companies: Capital gains deferral, corporate income tax reduction, and more

✅ Talent Retention: Keep your best employees with meaningful ownership—not just raises

✅ Valuation & Financing: Understand the 2025 deal landscape and flexible funding models

📌 Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for:

- Business Owners planning an exit or recap
- CFOs evaluating corporate tax or capital strategy
- Succession Planners seeking values-aligned ownership transitions
- HR & ESOP Committee Members aiming to understand the full value of employee ownership

💬 Hear From Past Attendees

“I came in skeptical. I left with a clear understanding of how ESOPs could be our best path forward—even in an uncertain economy.”

— Mark T., CFO, Manufacturing Company

"This webinar helped clarify both the exit plan and how we can support employees at the same time."

— Susan D., Founder & CEO, B2B Services Firm

🎯 Why 2025 is the Time for ESOPs

ESOPs can create a rare win-win:

- Liquidity for founders without third-party control
- Tax savings that protect cash and buffer costs
- Employee ownership that attracts, retains, and motivates talent
- In today’s economic climate, that edge is no longer optional—it’s essential.