Topic: Employee Ownership: A Powerful Tool for Exit Planning, Retention, and Legacy

Speaker:   Will Petter, a Partner with B2B CFO

1. Why Employee Ownership and Why Now
2. What is Employee Ownership
3. 3 Main Types of Broad-Based Employee Ownership
4. Which Businesses Fit Which Model
5. Benefits of EO for Stakeholders
6. EO in Exit Planning – A Legit Alternative to PE

Speaker's bio:

Will Petter is a Certified Employee Ownership Advisor (CEOA) and Partner at B2B CFO®, where he helps privately held businesses maximize enterprise value, navigate transitions, and evaluate all available exit strategies—including employee ownership. With more than 15 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, and financial leadership, Will has advised founders, boards, and leadership teams across a wide range of industries.

Throughout his career, Will has led sell-side transactions, raised over $150 million in debt and equity capital, and served as interim CFO during complex turnarounds. He has deep experience in helping business owners evaluate options such as strategic sales, private equity investments, management buyouts, and ESOPs. His work focuses on preserving legacy, building sustainable growth, and empowering leadership teams with the tools they need to thrive post-transition.

Will began his career at Ernst & Young and Kroll and holds master’s degrees in finance and accounting from Tulane and the University of Southern California. He lives in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and three children.

Outside of work, Will, his wife, Laura, and their three children—Felicity, Howie, and Annette—enjoy exploring the amazing outdoor activities that Colorado has to offer.