By: David Shadovitz for Human Resource Executive
It’s become something of a tradition to begin the new year with an acquisition or two in the HR vendor space. This year, we weren’t disappointed. On Jan. 15, New York-based benefits consultancy The Segal Group announced it had acquired Benz Communications, a San Francisco-based HR and employee-benefits-communication consulting firm.
Benz Communications, a five-time honoree of the Inc. 5000 (a list of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S.), significantly expands Segal’s communication practice, essentially doubling the number of employees in that group to 60. Benz Communications Founder Jennifer Benz will lead the practice, which will be called Segal Benz, as senior vice president.
“Our new colleagues from Benz Communications are known as strategic and creative thought leaders,” says David Blumenstein, president and CEO of The Segal Group. “Their services focus on creating modern, fresh and engaging communications that will help our clients stay ahead of industry trends.”
Regarding the acquisition, Benz says: “There has never been a more important time to get people engaged in their health, finances and jobs overall. Joining The Segal Group will give our current clients access to expanded consulting expertise while we continue to deliver cutting-edge communications strategies.”
In addition to her day job, Benz serves as a program advisor for HRE’s Health & Benefits Leadership Conference, which is now in its sixth year.
Following the announcement, I asked Benz to share her thoughts on prominent trends she sees emerging in the employee-benefits space over the next year. Two, in particular, stood out for her.
