Northern Ireland structural, civil and infrastructure engineering consultancy Design ID Consulting has transitioned to employee ownership, according to the Irish News, marking a milestone for the region as it becomes the 20th business locally to adopt the model.

The Royal Hillsborough-based firm, which also has offices in London and Dublin, has transferred a controlling shareholding into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), meaning the business will be held on behalf of its employees while continuing to operate under its existing leadership team. The transition coincides with the company's 20th anniversary.

Founded in 2005 by Ian Douglas, with Jonathan Macauley joining in 2007, Design ID has grown into one of Northern Ireland's leading independent engineering consultancies, delivering projects across multiple sectors.

Douglas said: "Design ID has always been about people and how we work together. Employee ownership allows us to protect that as we plan for the future. It provides continuity for our clients and creates a structure where our team has a genuine stake in what comes next."

Macauley added: "This is about recognising the contribution of our team and putting in place a structure that supports the next phase of the business. It strengthens accountability and gives our people a clear sense of ownership in the long-term success of Design ID."

Employee Ownership Ireland chair Karen Maguire described the milestone as significant, noting that reaching 20 employee-owned businesses in Northern Ireland demonstrates that more owners are "actively considering structured succession options that protect their business, their people and their legacy."

Discover how Design ID's ownership transition is shaping the future of independent engineering consultancy in the complete report.