Lloyds Empowers Workers With ESOPs and Open Leadership

Lloyds Metals is reshaping the norms of heavy industry by placing trust and inclusivity at the core of its organisational model. Believing that trust fosters accountability, the company operates with a flat hierarchy that empowers employees—regardless of title—to lead, make decisions, and innovate. “Titles don’t define leadership here, mindset does,” says Venkatesan R, Group CHRO.
This philosophy is reflected in one of the most inclusive employee stock ownership plans in the sector. Over 2,700 employees, from executives to shopfloor workers, have been allotted ESOPs at just Rs 4 per share. “It’s not just a motivator,” Venkatesan notes, “it’s about fairness and shared success.”
Lloyds also invests heavily in upskilling, leadership development, and technical education, ensuring that career progression is merit-based and accessible. By prioritising local hiring and recruiting women into non-traditional roles such as HEMM operations, the company is broadening access to quality employment and uplifting underserved communities.
What sets Lloyds apart further is the rare cultural transparency it promotes: employees have direct access to top leadership, including the promoters. This open-door policy helps align individual growth with broader national manufacturing ambitions.
In an industry dominated by machinery, Lloyds is proving that people remain its greatest strength. 

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