Cheetham Hill Construction Ltd (CHC) is proud to announce its transition to an employee-owned business. The move, facilitated through the establishment of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), reflects CHC’s commitment to securing its long-term future, rewarding employee loyalty, and maintaining its strong independent identity.
Under the new structure, 100% of CHC’s shares will be held for the benefit of its employees, ensuring that all current and future staff benefit directly from the company’s ongoing success. The decision honours the vision of long-serving Managing Director Howard Chamberlain, who has led the company with dedication and integrity for nearly six decades.
Howard will continue as a Director, while Contracts Director Mike Goodier will step into the role of Managing Director, ensuring continuity of leadership and preserving the values that have underpinned CHC’s growth.
“There has always been talk about what the future of CHC would look like when the time came for me to take a step back,” said Howard Chamberlain. “The reality is this, the business has never been about one person. Our success has always been a team effort, and this move is about recognising that. I’m proud that this structure gives everyone a stake in our future and helps ensure CHC remains an independent, thriving business for years to come.”
Established almost 60 years ago and based in Bury, CHC is a leading civil engineering and construction business with a respected track record across the North West and Yorkshire. The company also operates a substantial nationwide plant hire business, with a modern fleet of over 100 Volvo and Caterpillar machines.
The transition to employee ownership underlines CHC’s long-term commitment to its people and its future. Over the coming months, the Board and management team will work closely with employees to explain how the new structure works in practice and what it means for them.
The company was advised by accountants and business advisors Beever and Struthers. The team was led by corporate finance partner Dean Curtis with support from corporate finance manager Fatema Daud and tax partner Ann Bibby.
Legal advice was provided by the specialist EOT team at Brabners, led by corporate partner Stephen Hadlow and supported by solicitor Anthony Grogan.
Dean Curtis, Corporate Finance Partner at Beever and Struthers, commented:
“We’re delighted to have supported CHC on this landmark transition. Employee ownership is a powerful and increasingly popular succession solution for businesses that want to preserve their legacy, reward their people, and retain independence. CHC is a fantastic example of a well-run, family business with a strong culture, and the EOT structure ensures those strengths will continue long into the future.”
Stephen Hadlow, Partner at Brabners, added:
“It’s been a pleasure to work alongside the team at CHC to support their move to employee ownership. With significant experience advising on EOTs and succession strategies, we understand just how transformative this step can be — not just for the business, but for the people within it. CHC’s transition will help secure its independence, preserve its ethos, and empower its employees as co-owners to drive further success.”
This exciting milestone marks a new chapter for CHC one that builds on its strong heritage while empowering its people to drive the next phase of growth.
Both Brabners and Beever and Struthers are members of the Employee Ownership Association, a rapidly growing body which represents organisations throughout the UK that are employee-owned or transitioning to employee ownership.
Read more of the latest news from us