The Future of Work: Employee Ownership and Economic Transformation with Graeme Nuttall OBE

Graeme Nuttall OBE, the architect of the Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) model in the UK, delivered an illuminating discussion on transforming business ownership. Speaking at RMIT FORWARD in Melbourne, Nuttall shared insights from the UK's remarkable success story, where employee ownership has become a mainstream succession solution with over 1,800 businesses converting in the past decade.

Drawing from his pioneering Nuttall Review, Graeme explained how the EOT model offers a straightforward path to employee ownership, creating businesses that are more productive, resilient, and beneficial to their communities. He explored the practical implementation, tax considerations, and governance structures that make EOTs successful, while addressing common concerns from business owners considering this transition.

This engaging session featured rich Q&A discussion with Australian business owners, lawyers, cooperators, and industry leaders, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges in adapting the EOT model to the Australian context. From dental practices to organic producers, real-world examples demonstrated how employee ownership can transform businesses across various sectors.

Perfect for business owners considering succession planning, professional advisers, policymakers, and anyone interested in more equitable business models that benefit employees, businesses, and communities alike.

The event was hosted by 888 Co-operative Causeway in association with RMIT FORWARD and Employee Ownership Australia, with support from the BCCM (Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals) and RSA Oceania.

Chapter Markers:

[00:00:15] Welcome and Acknowledgment of Country - Pete Cohen

[00:01:30] Introduction by Anthony McMullen - Context of Employee Ownership

[00:03:20] Graeme Nuttall's Main Presentation

• Origins of his interest in employee ownership
• Definition and types of employee ownership
• Benefits and policy outcomes
• The EOT model explained
• UK success story and implementation

[00:40:15] Discussion between Graeme and Anthony McMullen

[00:51:30] Audience Q&A:

• Starting employee ownership in small businesses
• Tax implications and policy barriers
• Healthcare industry perspective
• Trade union engagement
• Community impact
• Technical aspects of EOT structure

[01:24:00] Closing Remarks by Peter Thomas - RMIT FORWARD

Video production by Dave Dixon from The Rhetoric