Wildfire, a UK technology specialist agency, has recently transitioned to being 100% employee-owned. This shift in ownership structure comes four years after CEO Debby Penton led a management buyout of the business. Now, all 30 employees have a stake in the firm, marking a significant change in the company’s ownership structure.
Penton has been with the company for more than 21 years and played a key role in the agency’s merger with tech firm EML in 2011. Following an MBO in 2000 where she held 66% of the agency’s shares, Penton has continued to lead Wildfire through various transitions. With this latest move to become employee-owned, she sees an opportunity for increased employee engagement and business growth.
In a statement to PRovoke Media, Penton expressed her excitement about the employee ownership model, highlighting the benefits it brings to the team. By selling her shareholding back to the business, Penton and COO Andrew Shephard are securing the future of Wildfire and preserving its culture. This shift in ownership structure will provide employees with more autonomy, transparency, and opportunities for involvement in shaping the agency’s future direction.
Looking ahead, Penton anticipates a smooth transition for the agency as she plans to gradually step back without disrupting its vision or mission. She emphasizes her commitment to being fully involved in this new chapter of Wildfire’s story for at least five years. This employee-owned model sets up continued growth and success for the agency with Penton dedicated to being part of that journey.
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