Employee Share Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
FGS has played a pioneering role in the area of Employee Share Ownership Plans (ESOPs) in the public and private sectors since the introduction of specific ESOP legislation in 1997. Our experience and deep knowledge come from having worked on some of the largest ESOPs in Ireland in recent years.
Our experience in establishing ESOPs includes providing advice and assistance to:
- Aer Lingus employees, and ongoing financial advice to the Aer Lingus ESOP through the Aer Lingus IPO and Ryanair bid process
- ESB employees, and ongoing financial and strategic advisory role
- NTR's management
- Bord Gais employees
- TSB staff on the establishment of an ESOP and subsequent sale of the company to Irish Life & Permanent
- The Vodafone ESOP to facilitate the final distribution of shares and wind up of the ESOP
Benefit of experience
ESOPs are a tax-efficient means of transferring share ownership to employees of a company, and numerous international studies have highlighted the benefits for both employers and employees of such rewards.
ESOPs are often most useful during a time of change for companies, as a means of rewarding employees for certain changes, ongoing transformation or continuing loyalty.
With its experience in this area, FGS is ideally placed to advise either companies or staff groups on the process involved in establishing an ESOP and its ongoing administration. Our services include:
- The negotiation of mutually beneficial terms for employers and employees
- Application of the relevant tax legislation to non-standard company situations
- Designing and delivering a comprehensive communication and education programme for employees
Related links
For details on related services see: