With the transfer of all shares into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) there are tangible benefits for everyone in the new company, rewarding the contribution of its dedicated team. The EOT safeguards job security while ensuring that ownership of another successful independent, growing business remains in Scottish hands.

HED has been at the forefront of the renewables, ecology and environmental management sectors providing support for businesses in the north of Scotland over the last 20 years. The company has focussed its expertise in the development of wind, hydro and solar power projects as well as housing, road, rail and major utility developments.

The company enjoys long-term partnerships with Scottish construction and renewable companies including BEAR Scotland, Bam Nuttall, SSEN, Green Highland Renewables, architectural companies and developers such as GH Johnston and Springfield properties.

An Employee Ownership Trust has been formed and holds 100% of the shares on behalf of the employees. Once the company had decided to proceed, its transition was project-managed by Ralph Leishman with legal services from Blackadder solicitors. The EOT provides the employees with opportunities to have annual tax-free bonuses and shares.

Imogen Young, director and senior ecologist, said: “The employee ownership model is the perfect solution for us as a small company allowing us to pass ownership and responsibilities to our hard-working team. This will be phased over a number of years allowing successional planning and eventually retirement in our later years.”

Michael Pedder, senior ecologist and new trustee with the employee trust, said: “This is an exciting opportunity as an employee to reap the long-term benefits of a well-established company which has a fantastic reputation in supporting projects across the Highlands.

“With the ongoing support of the previous owners Paul and Imogen we are all up for the challenge. HED Ltd senior management team will remain involved with the business for the foreseeable future providing on site advice and mentoring support.”