Recognizing 100 CEOs & C-level Executives

As a leader, Christine Adee said that creating an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and ownership is crucial. The chief executive officer of OwnersEdge Inc. actively involves team members in decision-making processes and seeks their input on strategic initiatives.

“In our employee-owned culture, all employees can have input, and listening to their ideas is crucial,” said Adee. “Being a part of this team and knowing what we do will build future wealth for each employee and their families drives my passion for these companies and the work I do every day.”

OwnersEdge surrounds its portfolio of companies with what they need to compete, grow and thrive. Its intentionally built structure provides a ready-made ESOP solution with in-house expertise and flexibility.

Under Adee’s guidance, over the past three years, OwnersEdge, along with its five operating companies, has experienced a remarkable journey of growth and transformation, marked by strategic decisions and innovative approaches. One of the most notable milestones has been the continued increase in the value of its employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) shares (over 30% growth in 3 years and 400%+ in the last ten years), a clear indicator of success and commitment to its employees’ financial well-being.

“As the leader of an employee-owned (ESOP) company, I see the future of work evolving in ways that emphasize leadership, flexibility, continuous learning and a deep sense of ownership,” said Adee. “The rapid pace of technological advancements, combined with shifting workforce dynamics, demands that we proactively adapt to stay competitive and innovative.”

Rekindling her passion for the business starts with a deep commitment to personal growth and continuous learning, said Adee, who regularly attends and participates in conferences, webinars and workshops. “It keeps me informed and fuels my curiosity and excitement about potential future developments, especially for our ESOP and our diversified acquisition strategy,” she said. “Engaging with a network of like-minded professionals to exchange ideas and experiences is one way I gain different perspectives that inspire creative solutions to challenges.”

Adee’s expertise and leadership have not gone unnoticed. She was honored as the Milwaukee Business Journal chief financial officer of the year in 2016, served as the president of the Wisconsin Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth and continues to contribute her expertise as a board member for several ESOP-owned companies. Her involvement with nonprofit organizations, including her role as treasurer of the Wellness Council of Wisconsin, further demonstrates her commitment to the broader community.

Among all her achievements, Adee is most proud of her efforts to share the OwnersEdge story with business owners and the ESOP community. “Her advocacy for employee ownership has not only fueled growth within her own company but has also inspired a wider movement toward sustainable, employee-centered business practices, helping to shape the future of work for countless others,” said her staff.

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