Artemis Marketing, a long-standing digital marketing agency based in Hurstpierpoint, has become an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) after turning down several substantial offers to sell
the business. This move marks a defining moment in the company’s 21-year history, placing its future firmly in the hands of the people who helped build it.
Putting people before profit
Founder and Managing Director, Mike Knivett, said the decision wasn’t driven by financial opportunity, but by loyalty to the team, the clients, and the community that have shaped Artemis since day one. “We were offered significant sums to sell, but it never felt right. Artemis has always been about people – our team, our clients, and the relationships we’ve built across Sussex over the past two decades. Becoming employee-owned protects those values for the long term.”
Mike founded Artemis in 2004 with a simple goal: to help local and owner-managed businesses thrive online. What began as a one-man venture has grown into one of Sussex’s most trusted digital marketing agencies and, in 2025, earned a place on The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list.
A future built around the team
The new Employee Ownership Trust structure means Artemis is now majority-owned on behalf of its employees. Every member of the team will share in the success they help create, ensuring the agency remains independent, stable and rooted in the community.
SEO Director, Sara Lenartowicz, said: “This decision reflects who we are. Our team cares deeply about the work we do and the clients we support. Employee ownership strengthens that sense of pride and gives everyone a real voice in shaping our future.”
Selena Burfield, SEO Manager, added: “Artemis has always felt like a family. Becoming employee-owned makes that belief official. We all share responsibility for how we move forward, and that’s incredibly motivating.”
Reassurance for clients and partners
While the ownership model has changed, clients will experience complete continuity. The leadership team stays the same, the day-to-day contact stays the same, and the transparent, relationship-led approach that Artemis is known for remains unchanged.
Instead of disruption, the EOT is expected to deepen the agency’s commitment to client service, ensuring every project is delivered by people who are personally invested in long-term success.
Rooted in Sussex, focused on long-term impact
With the move to employee ownership, Artemis strengthens its presence as a stable, independent employer in the region – committed to local talent, long-term careers and supporting the growth of SMEs across Sussex and the South East.
Mikę added: “This decision reflects who we are. Our team cares deeply about the work we do and the clients we support. Employee ownership strengthens that sense of pride and gives everyone a real voice in shaping our future.”
About Artemis Marketing
Founded in 2004 by Mike Knivett, Artemis Marketing is a multi‑award‑winning digital agency based in West Sussex, recognised in 2025 as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work.
Specialising in SEO, AI‑driven strategy, web design, and digital transformation, Artemis blends technical expertise with transparent, people‑first values.
The move to employee ownership reinforces the agency’s long‑term commitment to ethical growth, innovation, and client success – ensuring its legacy continues under the shared stewardship of its people. artemis.marketing
