Many businesses do not have succession plans. This program will discuss the employee ownership model, and how to implement it as a viable alternative to a traditional company sale. Hear from experts at the U.S. Small Business Administration and Georgia CEO who will share information about employee ownership models and how you can best prepare your business for succession.
Friday, May 23, 2025
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
In her role as the Program Manager for the Georgia Center for Employee Ownership (GACEO), Marie Davis is responsible for establishing the network of partners and delivery of programming necessary for the GACEO to carry out its mission of the creation of new employee-owned companies throughout all of Georgia by providing unbiased education, outreach, and technical assistance on all forms of employee ownership. In addition to her passion for employee ownership, Marie is also passionate about providing opportunities for all children through mentoring programs. Using her degree in Social Work from the University of Georgia, Marie has spent many years in different roles in the mentoring field including the Director of Mentoring for Center Point, a non-profit in Hall County Georgia and a Technical Assistant for mentoring.org, the National MENTOR program.
Jennell K. Taylor is an Economic Development Specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration in the Georgia District Office. Mr. Taylor is also the Program Manager for the SBA’s THRIVE – Emerging Leaders Reimagined Program as well as the Veteran Business Development Officer. Mr. Taylor is a graduate of Cleary University and holds certifications in economic development, development finance, exporting and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force
Doug Huemme is a lifelong entrepreneur, starting his first company while a college student. Since then, he has been involved in numerous startups, both domestically and internationally. He launched the Asia Pacific operations for a business unit of a Fortune 500 company and was vice president of marketing for a wireless networking start-up that raised over 34 million in venture capital funding. Prior to joining the SBDC in 2024 Doug spent over 17 years as a business owner, growing and operating a services company that was ultimately acquired by the world’s largest company in the sector. Doug brings to the SBDC a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of small business owners with expertise in the service industries.
All programs of the UGA SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The University of Georgia
Small Business Development Center
382 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
P: (706) 542-2762
