366 | Moving Forward Together Through Employee Ownership with Benjamin Gardner

Benjamin Gardner is the Chief Executive Officer of Dekker Designs and a working principal of the D/P/S commercial group, Benjamin is dedicated to improving the built environment using skills acquired from combined backgrounds in architecture, construction, and construction management. Benjamin has been with Dekker/Perich/Sabatini since 2001, and has led multiple project teams through all phases of planning, design, and construction administration. His years with D/P/S have given him a breadth of project experience that informs his unique understanding of the issues faced by developers, educators, and the communities in which the firm does business.

Benjamin also has a long history of developing his family-owned properties, including hotels, a Montessori preschool and elementary academy that serves over 200 students, which he co-founded with his wife. They have recently developed a 78 bed senior living facility that is adjacent to the schools and it provides an intergenerational experiences for both seniors and students. His background provides him with a clear understanding of commercial real estate development, including mixed-use, retail, and civic properties.

This episode is sponsored by the coaching company of the host, Paul Zelizer. Consider a Strategy Session if you can use support growing your impact business.

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Employee Ownership Interview Transcript with Benjamin Gardner, CEO of Dekker Designs

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You can read the full transcript of this episode here

Key Topics in Employee Ownership Interview with Benjamin Gardner, CEO of Dekker Designs

  1. Introduction and Podcast Overview

    • Host Introduction

    • Target Audience and Podcast Goals

    • Call to Action for Subscription and Reviews

  2. Guest Introduction: Benjamin Gardner

    • Benjamin's Role and Background

    • Overview of Decker Designs and DPS Commercial Group

  3. Decker Designs and its History

    • Age and Presence in Different Locations

    • Engagement in Community and Social Contributions

  4. Sustainability and Social Innovation

    • Decker's Commitment to Sustainability

    • LEED Certification and Its Importance

    • Community-Oriented Architectural Projects

    • Integration of Intergenerational Learning Facilities

  5. Employee Ownership and ESOPs

    • Motivation for Transitioning to Employee Ownership

    • Definition and Explanation of ESOP

    • Importance of Pre-existing Ownership Culture

    • Structural Details of Decker’s ESOP

  6. Implementation of ESOP at Decker Designs

    • Process of Research and Decision Making

    • Buy-in from Partners and Succession Planning

    • Education and Communication Within the Company

  7. Current Observations and Challenges

    • Initial Reactions and Learning Curve Among Employees

    • Importance of Transparency and Goal Setting

    • Encouraging Participation and Innovation

  8. ESOP Impact and Future Prospects

    • Observations on Recruitment and Employee Retention

    • Expected Benefits and Cultural Shifts

    • Long-Term Goals and Tracking of Success Metrics

  9. Insights on New Mexico Business Environment

    • Economic Development and Innovation in New Mexico

    • Education and Training Partnerships

    • Comparative Market Analysis

  10. Conclusion and Call to Action

    • Closing Remarks and Gratitude

    • Future Collaboration Prospects

    • Contact Information for Further Inquiries

Paul Zelizer