Search firms invest down under

The promising talent market in Australia is proving attractive ground for top search companies, as more look to antipodean partners to broaden their global reach.

HR search and selection consultancy, Digby Morgan, has announced the purchase of its Australian affiliate HR Partners, a move they promise to be the first in a series of international acquisitions. John Maxted, Chief Executive Officer of Digby Morgan, explained the company’s strategy: “The Australian HR market is hugely buoyant and we have enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship with HR Partners that stretches back many years. The opportunities for growth in the region are significant and HR Partners will form the hub of a new Digby Morgan Asia Pacific network that we expect to grow both organically and through further acquisitions.

“The acquisition of our Australian affiliate is a natural first step in an international growth programme and is the launch pad of our longterm ambition and commitment to make Digby Morgan a global brand in HR recruitment.”

Signium International has also expanded its global scope by welcoming Crown & Marks Executive Search as a new member to its international network. The new addition strengthens Signium International’s presence in Asia Pacific, increasing their offices to 32 in 21 countries. Crown & Marks Executive Search, which has offices in Sydney and Melbourne, will cobrand under the name Signium International. The firm was founded seven years ago and is owned by Stephen Lennard and Allan Marks.