A Belfast architects is to share ownership of the firm with its employees
White Ink Architects – up to now owned by its three founders - said it is making the move on its 20 th anniversary to “preserve the independent spirit of the practice”.
It has formed an employee ownership trust which will managed 100% of the company shares on behalf of its employees.
White Ink Architects Director, Joan McCoy, said the move will incentivise staff and help maintain a high level of service for clients.
“We believe that employee ownership heralds the start of a vibrant new chapter in the White Ink story,” she said. “Our team now have a mammoth incentive to continue to drive forward the performance of the practice, helping our clients and improving lives through the buildings we create.
“This is going to benefit clients who, under the leadership of the existing directors, have a team of employee owners more connected to their success than ever before.”
As part of the transition, White Ink Architects has made several appointments to strengthen the existing management team and nurture talent. Claire McAteer, Pearse McCann and Shane McCrory step into a management role as Associates
The practice has worked on high-profile projects across the UK, including the £50 million RIBA Award Winner Brentford Lock West Phase, and projects for Hilton Hotel and Taylor Wimpey London.
The practise turned over £2,419,097 in 2020, a 2.7% increase on the previous year, and expects to increase sales in current year further and by 10% in 2022.
White Ink Architects Director, Claude Maguire, said the move to employee ownership protects the future of the company.
“We’re very proud of the company we’ve built and the strong client relationships we have formed over the last 20 years,” she said. “It was important that we protect White Ink’s legacy whilst acknowledging the contribution of our team to White Ink Architects’ success.
“We are delighted to be placing the future of the company into the hands of our employees. The new ownership structure removes barriers to succession, ensuring that the choice of
future leaders will be determined solely on talent, ability and the drive to deliver White Ink’s vision.”
