Mercer acquires Leapgen

When investing in new HR technology, it’s got to deliver for the organization. Yet, many HR functions aren’t able to support the business in their aims because their tech just isn’t able to help them in doing so.

That was the finding of recent Mercer research which highlights that for the US organizations increasing their total HR spend, nearly six in 10 HR leaders do not think their function has the right mix of technology to execute against business goals.

This is despite 63% spending more on HR technology in 2023.

Mercer-Leapgen merger aims to solve HR tech strategy issue

However, part of this strategic HR technology issue could be about to be solved.

Mercer, the Marsh & McLennan Companies-owned subsidiary which specializes in talent consultancy and operates in 130 countries, has acquired Leapgen, experts in HR digital strategy and transformation, workforce solutions, and improving the employee experience.

Jean Martin, senior partner at Mercer says the move will enhance Mercer’s position as a trusted advisor in the rapidly-growing HR digital strategy market allowing the newly merged firms to deliver advice on better technology decision-making, HR solution mapping, and how to use technology to improve employee experience outcomes.

He notes: “Mercer’s acquisition of Leapgen will enable our clients to approach HR technology strategically and holistically to transform how HR delivers value to the business, and how people experience work.”He notes: “Mercer’s acquisition of Leapgen will enable our clients to approach HR technology strategically and holistically to transform how HR delivers value to the business, and how people experience work.”

“When we don't view HR transformation through a digital lens, we risk low return on investment, low utilization, and, of increased importance, a fragmented and unsatisfactory workforce experience.”

Exactly the gap that Mercer’s latest research appears to show needs fixing.

Digital strategy needed in a Covid-changed landscape

With COVID accelerating the need for HR to adopt new and different technologies — health reporting, talent intelligence needs, support for new working structures — Jason Averbook, global leader of digital HR strategy at Mercer, and former CEO at Leapgen, believes the merger allows Leapgen to make good on delivering the digital capabilities businesses now need.

He exclusively tells UNLEASH: “The combination of Mercer and Leapgen brings together one of the largest HR consulting organizations in the world with the market leader in helping HR organizations shift from doing to BEING digital in the NOW of Work.He exclusively tells UNLEASH: “The combination of Mercer and Leapgen brings together one of the largest HR consulting organizations in the world with the market leader in helping HR organizations shift from doing to BEING digital in the NOW of Work.

“In a world that is ever-changing and digital at its core, this combination creates an immediate market leader in advising organizations worldwide on the impact of HR and workforce technologies today and into the future."

Mercer Leapgen are one of UNLEASH America’s major sponsors. Register your place at the show now and book in time to see them at their booth in Las Vegas on April 26 & 27.