How it feels to be an owner.
A cultural renaissance launched in 1986 when Burns & McDonnell became an employee-owned firm, moving into an era of significant expansion that continues today. That’s because every day, we feel the rewards of employee ownership — a difference-maker that includes but goes well beyond financial benefit. It’s a powerful narrative that our people embrace.
When you bring an owner’s mindset, you approach your job differently. Our diligent work drives our clients’ success, which leads to our company’s success. It’s a beneficial cycle that rewards each of us financially, now and in the future. It’s invigorating to do great work in an above-and-beyond environment. It’s humbling to be surrounded by people you trust — in a place where you’ll push yourself, knowing you always have the support you need. When we’re all moving together in the same direction, our work tells an extraordinary tale.
What is an ESOP?
Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) turns employees into owners who, as stockholders, participate directly in the company’s profitability. Our ESOP is special — only a small fraction of firms nationwide are 100% employee-owned, and even fewer have enjoyed that status for more than 30 years, as we have.
Enrollment in our ESOP is automatic and costs nothing. At year-end, our company makes a cash contribution to the ESOP, which is allocated to eligible employee-owners. The cash in your account purchases shares at the current fair market value, assessed annually. Throughout your career with Burns & McDonnell, your account can grow with annual contributions, stock appreciation and dividend payments at no personal cost. It’s a high-impact benefit that rewards loyalty and achievement. And the retirement rewards can be substantial.
Cause for celebration.
Employee ownership here is more than a corporate structure and a financial opportunity. It’s cause for celebration. Each year begins with a companywide chili bowl celebration as we commemorate the anniversary of paying off the mortgage that enabled us to become an employee-owned firm.With the knowledge that we are all connected through the common thread of ownership and shared success, we also throw a monthlong party every October called ESOPtober. Beginning the month with an annual pancake breakfast, we celebrate this cultural touchstone with food, fun and educational events. And while only one team can win the annual lunchbox trivia competition in each location, we are all winners through the unifying power of employee ownership.