ESOP Advisory Services

Custom Employee Stock Ownership Plan Formations

We don't believe in cookie-cutter ESOPs. Our multidisciplinary team builds custom strategies, focused on creating value for all stakeholders, including business owners, plan participants, and their communities. From structuring responsive plans to completing efficient transactions, CSG has helped hundreds of middle market companies across all industries.

Our ESOP advisors also work with established, employee-owned businesses to optimize their plans and help them grow through strategic acquisitions.

Education-Focused

We want clients to make informed decisions, and we strive to bring clarity to all aspects of these complex transactions.

Data-Driven

Our team leverages proprietary analytics to deliver comprehensive solutions for any employee ownership situation.

Tested & Experienced

Our transaction volume is unmatched, our institutional knowledge is extensive, and our bench is deep.

Goal Assessment

Once stakeholders understand the pros and cons of employee ownership, we seek to appreciate the financial drivers, legacy considerations, and risk tolerances of all parties. This can help clarify the potential fit of an ESOP strategy.

We listen and learn the motivations and needs behind a potential ESOP.

Financial Analysis

Our ESOP feasibility studies are bespoke, objective, and comprehensive. All analysis is performed in-house in order to deliver consistent insights on fair market valuation, optimal structures, estate planning considerations, and transaction alternatives.

We provide clients with data and insights to make informed decisions

Deal Structuring

Once stakeholders understand the viability and costs of a potential ESOP strategy, we start the painstaking process of building a transaction. Following an extensive due diligence process, our advisors finalize a deal's structure and coordinate activities with all relevant parties.

We craft unique ESOPs that reflect the goals of all stakeholders

Capital Raise

It takes unique expertise and an extensive network to secure optimal ESOP financing. We draft a best-in-class confidential information memorandum (CIM) and run a competitive process with commercial lenders nationwide to obtain comprehensive loan offers and negotiate favorable terms.

Negotiation

An ESOP transaction isn't complete until a sponsor and a trustee agree on a price and plan terms. Our experts lead all negotiations on a company's behalf and oversee the finalization of transaction documents and credit agreements.

We take a grounded approach to coordinate partners, drive transactions, and close deals

An ESOP Case Study

Join Larry Kaplan, CSG’s Founder and Managing Partner, for a review of the leveraged ESOP feasibility, structuring, and financing process in this brief video.

Based on real client interaction, this case study highlights the key considerations and strategies behind a successful employee stock ownership plan transaction.