‘Global employment is the future of all employment,’ says Oyster CEO after securing $59m in Series D funding

Oyster, a global employment platform that empowers companies to hire, pay, and care for their global teams, has raised $59 million in Series D funding.

The funding was led by Silver Lake Waterman, with participation from existing investors, including Emergence Capital, Endeavor Catalyst, Georgian, G2 Venture Partners, and Stripes.

The investment marks a significant milestone in Oyster’s fundraising journey, bringing the company’s total funding to $286 million to date with a $1.2 billion valuation.

By achieving this investment, Oyster’s Co-founder and CEO, Tony Jamous, believes that the business will be able to accelerate its platform roadmap, scale its impact, improve its customers’ compliance posture, and enhance its ability to attract and retain top talent – something that all businesses aspire to achieve.

In an exclusive interview with Jamous, UNLEASH explores more about what this investment means for both Oyster and its customers. 

Oyster’s investment plans and the importance of remote work

Oyster, which became a certified B Corp in 2023 has one mission: to pave the way to a future where people can succeed on the merit of their talent and ambition, rather than their location.

Also, as one of only 20 B Corp unicorn companies in the world, Jamous hopes to inspire more entrepreneurs to create companies that embed impact into their business models, while proving that “companies that do good can also do well.”

He adds: “I see global employment as the future of all employment. It’s not just a strategic business move, it can have an incredible impact on society. 

We’ve seen firsthand how global employment helps reverse brain drain, democratize access to job opportunities, promote mental wellbeing and work/life balance, and so much more.”

In fact, according to Oyster’s Impact Report, more than 40% of team members hired through Oyster have been able to access first-time benefits, increase their economic mobility, and support their communities. 

One way in which Oyster promotes a healthy work/life balance is by offering flexible working hours – something that Jamous is very passionate about. 

So much so, remote work has always been an integral part of Oyster’s culture, as its platform supports businesses of all shapes, sizes, and structures. 

Jamous adds: “I’m a firm believer that people don’t need to be at an office from 9-5 in order to be productive – treat your employees like adults! 

“Whether remote, hybrid, or somewhere in between, the importance of flexible talent strategies remains. Because geographical differences aren’t limitations, and diverse perspectives are strengths for any company. 

This being said, Jamous is confident that as more companies grow their teams across borders, Oyster’s platform and services will continue to adapt and evolve to meet those needs. 

“Today, customers come to Oyster for the trusted insights they need to compliantly hire and retain great talent,” he concludes. “We’re excited to expand our impact, and bring more freedom and flexibility to knowledge workers everywhere.

“We believe in the infinite potential of humans no matter where they come from – the world truly is your oyster.”