Last Friday (29th June) was Employee Ownership Day across the UK. As an employee owned company, our team are individual shareholders in Fitwise which leads to benefits for the team, the company and even the economy.

To celebrate the day, Managing Director Neil brought in cake for everyone and gave a talk on employee ownership.

We caught up with Phyllis (Event Manager and the Fitwise Trustee Representative) a few questions about how being employee owned affects the company.

Q1. What is your role at Fitwise?

I am an Event Manager, I organise conferences and exhibitions.

Q2. How long have you worked for Fitwise?

Almost 5 years.

Q3. Is this the first employee owned company you’ve worked for?

Yes.

Q4. In a nutshell, what does it mean for a company to be employee owned?

It’s an inclusive system for employees. You feel much more part of the business by buying shares. If we have a bonus it is tax free.

Q5. What difference did it make to you when the company became employee owned?

It made me feel part of and more committed to the success of the business. It is a great benefit that we don’t pay tax on any bonus payments.

Q6. What do you think the main benefits of employee ownership are to the company?

It leads to a more committed workforce and I would think being employed owned would attract more people during recruitment.

Q7. If I decide I don’t want to buy shares, do I still experience the benefits of being part of an employee owned company?

Yes, you do. Your bonus payment will also be tax free even if you don’t own shares.

Thanks for your time, Phyllis! 

Click on the image below to find out more about Employee Ownership.