What exactly is an ESOP, and why are more CPA firms exploring it as an alternative to traditional ownership models or private equity investment?
In January 2020, Bland & Associates, P.C. became Nebraska’s first 100% employee-owned CPA firm. Since then, the firm has experienced significant growth, cultural shifts, and new levels of employee engagement. In this session, Bland’s leadership will share why they chose the ESOP path, how it differs from private equity, and what the transition process really looks like.
This is a must-attend session for anyone interested in the future of firm ownership, whether you're a partner, a rising leader, or simply curious about alternatives to the traditional partnership model. Learn how ESOPs can support long-term sustainability, align with your firm’s values, and offer a compelling path forward beyond private equity or status quo succession plans.
Define an ESOP and how it functions as an alternative ownership model for CPA firms
Compare ESOPs to private equity and traditional partnership structures, including cultural and operational differences
Evaluate insights from Bland & Associates’ real-world transition to employee ownership, including motivations, process, and outcomes
Recognize how ESOPs can support firm sustainability, leadership development, and employee engagement as part of a long-term succession strategy
Bland & Associates, P.C.
HR Director
[email protected]
(402) 397-8822
Megan joined Bland & Associates in 2019 as a Manager in the Human Resources department, with the goal to support their mission of "creating a fulfilling and dynamic workplace culture." In 2003, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Management from Truman State University. She moved to Omaha following graduation and earned an M.B.A. with concentrations in Finance and Human Resources from Bellevue University in 2007.
Bland & Associates, P.C.
Managing Partner
[email protected]
(402) 397-8822
Jeremy started his career at Bland & Associates, P.C. out of college, in 1998. He left the firm in 1999 and worked at 2 other local CPA firms in Omaha before returning to Bland & Associates in 2006. He became a shareholder in 2008 and enjoys working in a dynamic office that has grown tremendously over the years to provide associates with advancement opportunities.
Bland & Associates, P.C.
Partner
[email protected]
(402) 397-8822
Amanda was the first female promoted to Partner as a CPA at Bland & Associates, P.C and has 21 years of public accounting experience. She supports tactical growth in the health care consulting and advisory services market and is the leader of our Federal Government contracts division. As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), she vast knowledge of project management principles and years of experience managing some of the most innovative and complicated programs in the Federal Government. In her spare time, she serves as a Board Director for several non-profit organizations.
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