Overview
For more than 40 years, Stone Hill Contracting Co. (Stone Hill) has worked to build a strong reputation as one of the most reliable design-build contractors for water, wastewater treatment, water retention and landfill projects in the Mid-Atlantic. By providing a full range of design-build services to the private, public and municipal sectors, the company has become a leader in the regional water works industry. Stone Hill’s leadership team attributes company success to the commitment and skill of their management professionals and construction workforce, who are as passionate about delivering on their client’s vision as they are about advancing clean water and sanitation goals.
Situation
Stone Hill’s owners sought a business transition plan that would reward employees with the benefits of future growth, sustain expansion in regional markets, allow for an ownership exit strategy and create a liquidity event for key stakeholders. Following a thorough assessment of leadership goals and transition strategies, a 100% employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) emerged as the natural fit.
Solution
Stone Hill engaged SES ESOP Strategies (SES) along with its affiliated law firm, Stevens & Lee, to structure the new ESOP plan. SES conducted financial due diligence, modelled the proposed ESOP plan and transaction, executed a capital debt raise to assist with financing and negotiated with lenders. Attorneys from Stevens & Lee helped to prepare the ESOP transaction, related documents and establish a Stock Appreciation Rights Plan that would reward future company leaders and employees.
“It was very important to me that the business transition to an ESOP rewards the skill and dedication of our passionate workforce,” said David Mott, Owner of Stone Hill. “SES and Stevens & Lee guided the financing and technical details with the high-quality client service we value, and allowed our employees to directly invest in the future success of the company.”
For more information on this transaction, please contact Ed Renenger, President & CEO, at 610.478.2238, Mark Russell, Head of Finance, at 817.566.1013, or Vince Capone, Vice President, at 215.508.7716