Kelly Sturmthal
As a graduate from The University of Miami School of Law and a Florida attorney with a finance degree from UCF, Kelly is the resident expert in creating strategic family and business plans to protect and prosper. With an altruistic mindset, she owns several businesses that allow her to positively impact her community. As the owner of an estate planning and business planning and concierge law firm for over 25 years, and as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Kelly's expertise spans the areas of estate planning, growth and exit business planning, finance, banking, real estate, consulting, law office partnerships, family business ownership, and practical plans for protecting a family's legacy. Personally, Kelly has been a military wife for over 30 years. Kelly's husband served as an Air Force office and fighter pilot for over 28 years. Both of her sons are committed to the military and aerospace defense industries, giving her a deep understanding of the sacrifices made by US military families.
Professionally, Kelly has founded several law firms, presented at the National Business Institute (NBI), Lawline, the Florida Bar, the American Bar Association and co-authored the book Law Office on A Laptop. She also owns several businesses, including Step Out Strategies and Think Local Military, a business that promotes patriotism and supports military families.
As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), Certified Entrepreneurship and Business Life Consultant and Myers Briggs Alignment and Natural Skills Consultant, Kelly combines professional knowledge and practical insight to protect and prosper you, your family and your business.
Kelly's extensive experience includes numerous leadership positions. She has served as PTO President (for her children’s elementary school for over 7 years), Member and President of the Jupiter High School Boosters Board, President of the Stuart/Jupiter Tri Delta Sorority Alumnae Group and leader of several business owner groups over the last twenty-five years.
As a speaker for various organizations and local businesses, she covers topics such as Protecting Your Family and Protecting Your Business, Growth & Exit Planning, Blessed Business Women, Iron Sharpens Iron, What is a Profitable Lawyer?, Back To Basics, What Are Your Roles? and the Significant Seven.
Hearing a family’s story is Kelly’s favorite part of her business. Connect with her on Instagram at KellyEsqU or ThinkLocalMilitary, on Facebook at KellyEsq and KellyEsqU and on LinkedIn - Kelly Sturmthal.
Free professional learning consult
What Is the Business Owners Council?
The Business Owners Council (BOC) is a collaborative network of experienced financial, legal, tax, and business advisors focused on one outcome: helping business owners build value and exit on their terms.
Founded in 2008 and inspired by the principles of strategic exit planning, the BOC connects entrepreneurs with coordinated expertise designed to align business growth with personal financial goals.
We don’t just help you grow your company — we help ensure that growth translates into lasting wealth.
Not sure if this is for you? Use the form to request a consultation if it isn’t the right fit, we’ll point you to better resources.
Meet Our Board of Advisors
Why an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Might be a Good Alternative for a Business Exit Plan
Why an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Might be a Good Alternative for a Business Exit Plan
Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) can be an excellent alternative for business exit planning, providing unique advantages for business owners, employees, and the company alike. Here’s why an ESOP might be a smart choice for those looking to transition out of their business:
1. Gradual and Flexible Exit for Owners
Unlike traditional sales that require a full and immediate exit, ESOPs allow owners tosell theirshares gradually over time. This phased approach gives business owners the flexibility to plan their exit on their terms, remaining involved in leadership or decision-making as long as they desire. This gradual transition helps maintain financial security and allows owners to impart their knowledge and company values to the next generation of leaders.
2. Significant Tax Benefits
One of the strongest incentives for choosing an ESOP lies in its tax advantages. Owners who sell to ESOPs may defer or even avoid capital gains taxes under certain IRS provisions (e.g., Section 1042 rollover). For companies structured as S-Corporations, the portion owned by an ESOP is often exempt from federal income tax, which can dramatically reduce tax liability and free up capital for reinvestment and growth. Contributions to ESOPs used to buy shares or repay loans are tax-deductible, making the transition financially efficient for the business and owners.
3. Preservation of Company Culture and Legacy
ESOPs allow business owners to protect their company’s culture and identityby ensuring the business stays in the hands of those who care most—its employees. Unlike sales to outside buyers who might relocate, shrink, or dismantle the company, ESOP-owned firms are more likely to maintain local jobs and uphold company values. Research indicates ESOP companies have higher resilience in economic downturns, providing enhanced job stability and community continuity.
4. Employee Engagement and Retention
By converting employees into owners, ESOPs align employee interests with the company’s long-term success. Employees receive shares in retirement accounts without out-of-pocket contributions, promoting a sense of ownership, loyalty, and higher productivity. ESOP participants generally have larger retirement savings compared to employees in non-ESOP firms, helping recruit and retain talented staff.
5. Business Continuity and Stability
Because employees who know the company and its customers best remain in place, ESOPs often provide a smoother and more stable transition than external sales. This continuity benefits customers, suppliers, and the broader community by avoiding disruption in service and maintaining operational consistency.
6.Liquidity and Diversification for Owners
ESOPs create a ready market for business shares, allowing owners to access liquidity without an outright sale to external investors. Proceeds from the sale can be diversified into other investments, helping owners spread risk and plan their estates more effectively.
In Summary
An ESOP can be awin-win business exit strategy—offering owners a flexible exit with tax advantages while rewarding employees and preserving the company’s culture and community roots. For business owners valuing legacy, employee welfare, and financial prudence, incorporating an ESOP into their succession planning merits serious consideration.
