Shetland-based ESPL Regulatory Consulting (ESPL), is a unique business which provides specialist regulatory services to the life sciences and pharmaceutical / medical device industries. When a new medicine or a medical device is developed, the scientific data from laboratory studies and clinical trials needs to be reviewed, compiled and submitted to regulatory authorities around the world.  ESPL’s team of highly-experienced medical and regulatory professionals and scientists define strategies and complete these activities on behalf of its clients. One of the most experienced independent specialist consultancies in its field, it operates in throughout the UK, across the EU, and in North America and Australia.

In considering their long-term succession options, founders Helen, Tony, and Chris Erwood, were keen to identify a solution that would allow the business to continue to thrive and remain rooted in Scotland.  We caught up with Dr Helen Erwood to learn more about the company’s decision to sell to employees.

The ESPL Regulatory Consulting team at their Shetland location. Picture L-R: Holly Hunter, Diane Wood, Anna Watt, Helen Erwood, Tony Erwood.  Taken 29-03-2018.

The ESPL Regulatory Consulting team

It’s approaching time for control of the business to be handed over to the next generation.  We have built up a successful business from our Shetland base and we couldn’t have done that without the considerable talents and efforts of our team.  One of our core values is collaboration, and the employee ownership model reinforces that.

“It is enables control of the business to be passed onto the ESPL team who can protect the consultancy’s best interests and ensure the outstanding reputation it has earned within its specialist sectors will be maintained.

“We’re hugely thankful for the support we have received throughout the transfer, including the grant for legal costs provided by Highlands & Islands Enterprise, legal advice given by Blackadders LLP, and the assistance offered throughout the process by Ownership Associates.

“We are looking forward to the company’s continued growth under its new ownership model.”

If you have a question or you want to talk about how employee ownership can help you, please get in touch with us here using the ‘expert support’ option.