Benchmark International

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition of both Blue Octopus HR & Recruitment Limited and Blue Octopus Recruitment Limited (Blue Octopus), by IRIS.

Founded in 2010 by brothers, Chris and Liam Coleman, Blue Octopus is an applicant tracking system, recruitment, and HR software developer.

The company’s in-house developed software, Octo, allows for recruiting managers to signpost the hiring process from posting the vacancy to onboarding new staff using simple step-by-step processes. Services are provided to over 200 companies primarily in the public sector, construction, manufacturing, and retail.

IRIS provides industry leading business critical software solutions and services to manage core business operations. Founded over 45 years ago with accountancy software, the company has evolved to be relied on by more than 100,000 customers across 135 countries in accountancy, education and business.

This acquisition complements IRIS’ long-term vision to significantly expand its presence in the human capital management (HCM) segment. By integrating Blue Octopus’ complementary recruitment software and services into the IRIS suite, customers can derive enhanced value from a cohesive and secure HCM system.

The move demonstrates IRIS’ dedication to investing in quality people and pioneering products to enrich its service offerings. With shared core values and culture, the collaboration between the two companies presents an opportunity to combine a HR, payroll and recruitment offering for customers.

Stephanie Coward, HCM Managing Director at IRIS, commented: “Our aim is to not only assist our clients in achieving productivity and compliance but also to ensure an exceptional employee experience right from the start. We are thrilled to welcome Blue Octopus onboard and are committed to supporting its expansion as well as investing in its staff for the benefit of both current and new customers.”

Founders of Blue Octopus, Chris and Liam Coleman, added: “It’s an exciting time to be in the talent management industry as it experiences rapid growth. The landscape is ever evolving, presenting a range of challenges for HR and internal recruitment teams, from navigating global talent shortages to the fierce competition for securing top talent, all while maintaining timeliness and cost-effectiveness.

“Being part of the IRIS family will enable us to tap into exceptional teams and resources to help with these challenges. We’re thrilled about the potential for our software and services to reach new heights, delivering enhanced value to our customers and offering our team members expanded opportunities for their personal and professional growth.”

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL:

Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $10 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook’s Global League Tables.