Aaron Dean: The Game-Changer in ESOP Data

Through Deanalytics, Aaron Dean is transforming the way employee-owned companies use data - turning numbers into clarity, culture, and long-term value.

Through DeanAnalytics, Aaron Dean is redefining how employee-owned companies use data by helping them use data as a common language.

If you haven’t heard of DeanAnalytics yet, you will soon. It’s not just software, it’s an AI powerhouse built for ESOPs. Think of it as the next generation of ownership tools: one clear dashboard for financial and operational data, including the interactive “owner’s game” where every employee can see their contribution, KPI strategy sessions, and data-driven forecasting. DeanAnalytics makes it simple, turning scattered numbers into a shared story that every employee-owner can understand and act on. This simple and clean dashboard is the new wave of ESOP sophistication.

Turning Numbers Into Ownership Power

With over a decade of experience both as an ESOP insider and a seasoned data strategist, Aaron Dean is uniquely positioned to lead in this industry. You may have seen him speak at conferences like the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) and share his partnerships with State Centers through the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX). Deananalytics is thinking leaps and bounds ahead of what an employee owned company needs to succeed.

Employee Ownership Platform

Aaron’s mission is simple: make data a shared language. From the shop floor to the boardroom, shared understanding turns numbers into action in a simple platform for everyone to be on the same page. When every employee can see how their daily work links to company performance, engagement rises, waste falls, and long-term value grows.

DeanAnalytics offers tailored services at every stage: from literacy workshops that help teams build confidence, to the Value Driver Dashboard and Owner’s Platform designed specifically for ESOPs. Whether a company is just starting to measure or already swimming in data, the goal is the same: turning information into shared ownership value.

“Data literacy isn’t a one-time training—it’s a path. We help teams move from first questions to confident decisions, linking daily work to share value so employee-owners can act with clarity.” CEO Aaron Dean, Deanalytics.

Leading the Way in ESOP Data

No one else in the world focuses exclusively on employee-owned data the way Aaron does. He bridges technical expertise with human-centered coaching. The result? Companies that engage employees, eliminate waste, and grow faster.

Want to see the strategy?

Get to know Aaron here: Empowered by Data: How Domo Transforms Careers | Domopalooza 202 5
Watch Aaron’s conference talk for a taste of his energy.
Download the free white paper to start your company’s data journey.
Learn more about Deanalytics.

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Employee Ownership in Action

By Katie . • August 4, 2025

Emprise - Nice-Pak Deal puts Employee Ownership First across city lines. In a major move for both global growth and local economic impact, Emprise Group Inc. , a 100% employee-owned company with operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan announced that its portfolio company Vivos Holdings will merge with Nice-Pak Products , a global leader in personal care and hygiene wipes. While Emprise is based in St. Louis , its presence in Grand Rapids is a key part of the story. Grand Rapids ranks 12th in the country for the number of employee-owned companies , and this deal reinforces its role as a rising hub for shared-ownership success. The combined organization will become one of the world's largest private-label and co-manufacturing providers of healthful living products—offering a powerful example of what employee ownership can achieve at scale. "Being employee-owned means we invest in people first," said Richard Koulouris , CEO of Emprise. "This combination strengthens our ability to create long-term value for both our customers and our employee-owners." This transaction brings together over 2,700 employees globally , including the 1,200+ employee-owners already part of the Emprise network. Nice-Pak—known for products like the original Wet-Nap® and resealable baby wipe packs—adds manufacturing strength and global reach. At the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) , we see this as a milestone moment that aligns with our mission: helping business owners and communities across the state explore and adopt employee ownership. As Michigan invests in this model, through programs like the $500,000 state pilot launched in 2025 . Why It Matters: Local leadership: Emprise's Grand Rapids facility is part of a growing network of Michigan-based employee-owned companies. Broad-based benefit: Employee ownership drives wealth-building, retention, and stronger communities. Real-world validation: This deal is among the largest ESOP-led acquisitions ever—proof that the model works, even at a global scale. This is more than a merger. It's a celebration of what happens when two communities, built on the foundation of employee ownership, come together to grow something greater across city lines. Thanks to Alice Clark, CHRO, Emprise Group Inc., for their partnership with the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership.