Eric Rupe Shares ESOP Leadership Insights at the 2026 Prairie Capital Client Conference

At the 2026 Prairie Capital ESOP Client Conference in Chicago, Lerch Bates CEO, Eric Rupe, joined a distinguished panel focused on one of the most important topics for employee‑owned companies today: perpetuating a strong, sustainable Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

The session, moderated by Dave Diehl, featured panelists Jeff Chungath of Telligen, Eric Rupe of Lerch Bates, and Jim Staruck of GreatBanc Trust Company. Together, they explored practical strategies for long‑term ESOP sustainability, a topic that continues to shape the future of employee‑owned organizations.

Why ESOP Sustainability Matters to Lerch Bates

As a 100% equitably employee‑owned company, every person at Lerch Bates is not just part of the team, they are an owner. That ownership mindset shapes how we show up for our clients, how we support one another, and how we plan for the future. Ensuring the long‑term sustainability of our ESOP is essential because it protects the shared value our employee‑owners work hard to create.

As we approach the 40th anniversary of our ESOP, Rupe’s participation in this panel reinforced our belief that:

• Strong governance safeguards the financial future of every employee‑owner
• Leadership development ensures continuity so ownership thrives across generations
• Clear trustee and board roles build trust, transparency, and accountability across the organization
• Long‑term ESOP sustainability strengthens both company performance and the ownership culture that defines Lerch Bates

Our ESOP is more than a benefit, it’s a commitment to shared success, collective stewardship, and long‑term value for every employee‑owner.

If you’d like to learn more about what employee ownership means at Lerch Bates, connect with us.