Willis Towers Watson makes strategic acquisition in South Africa
Global advisory firm Willis Towers Watson has moved to strengthen its human capital advisory services in South Africa, through the acquisition of Gauteng-based business and human resource management firm PE Corporate Services (PECS). The duo have been partners since 2014.
PECS’ service offerings span the domains of management consulting, training and other professional services, with a grounding in human capital management. Some specific service offerings include salary surveys, skill training, and remuneration advisory services, among a range of others.
The suite of services answers many calls in South Africa’s current business environment. Skill training, for instance, is absolutely crucial in South Africa, as the drive for innovative economic growth has revealed a considerable gap in digital skills across the country. A number of firms are looking for help to bring digital skills to their staff.
Remuneration is also a contentious topic in South Africa, and many businesses appreciate external expertise when debating matters of compensation. Over more than 70 years of existence, PECS has amassed a considerable pool of clients, and has worked with more than 5,000 organisations across Southern Africa.
Willis Towers Watson has been leveraging this reach and scope through a strategic partnership forged in 2014. The firm has now moved to consolidate this strategic position through an acquisition. PECS has offices in key financial centres of Johannesburg and Durban.
The staff from these offices will now move to Willis Towers Watson’s offices across the country before the first quarter of next year ends. According to officials, the move is a bid to establish a strong foothold for the Southern African and the broader African markets.
Commenting on the acquisition, Head of Talent & Rewards for Willis Towers Watson’s regional practice Ahmad Wwarie said, “PECS is a dynamic business with a strong and resourceful team, and we have enjoyed working closely with them for several years. This acquisition enables us to focus our extensive range of global talent and reward solutions to clients in South Africa and across the continent.”
Melanie Trollip, Managing Director at PECS added, “Our mission has always been to be leading advisors to leading companies. This transaction will enhance our ability to meet the growing need from multi-national clients for assistance in Africa, which has been one of our most important strategic objectives. We are delighted to become part of Willis Towers Watson, with whom we have been proud to be associated with for many years. We are looking forward to playing a full and meaningful role in the talent and reward business, providing clients with an even broader range of top-quality products, services and expertise.”
