Record year for outsourcing specialists

A Birmingham-headquartered outsourcing specialist has announced plans to double in size over the next five years following a record period of growth in the UK and abroad.

The Sigma Financial Group, which offers ‘white label’ customer contact centre services across the utilities, retail, financial services and telecommunications sectors, plans to double its 1,500 workforce by 2025 after cementing its position as a major provider to the utilities and energy industries – with the energy sector remaining a key focus for Sigma as it expands its expertise.

The business is forecasting a gradual increase in new jobs over the next five years at its Redditch and Birmingham offices, and also in Cape Town where Sigma opened its third and fourth call centres two years ago. It is also closely studying acquisition opportunities in mainland Europe, eastern Europe, the United States and Australia.

The news comes as Sigma reported earnings of £4 million in the past year – a record 12 months for the firm which was acquired by the South African-based Digicall Group in 2016.

Chief executive of the Sigma Financial Group, Gary Gilburd, said: “We have gone through massive change over the past five years – going from 200 employees to 1,500 and building our reputation as a trusted and versatile provider to a host of sectors.

“We are excited about our growth plans and our aspiration to double in size. It will always be challenging in such a competitive market but we have been backed every step of the way by our parent company.

“Planning to double our profits and workforce, both in the West Midlands and in South Africa, is an important step for us. It shows that despite the huge impact Covid-19 has had on many people and businesses, we have found ways to continue to deliver and have managed to keep growing but in a sustainable and responsible way.

“This includes our important markets such as the energy, water and financial services. Our growth in those sectors have been real cornerstones but it isn’t just about getting bigger, it is also about protecting our reputation as a call centre and credit management provider which our client partners can trust over the long-term.

“Overall, adding to our workforce both in Birmingham and Redditch is great news and an opportunity for what is a struggling local jobs market. We are also delighted to be expanding in South Africa and, as another important step, are seriously looking at potential acquisitions in mainland Europe, Eastern Europe, the United States and Australia.”

In the West Midlands, Sigma opened its Birmingham base in the McLaren Building in 2015 as it expanded from its first offices in Prospect Hill, Redditch.

The company celebrates its tenth anniversary next year and has won multiple industry awards since it was co-founded by Mr Gilburd and chief operating officer Mike Harfield in 2011. It now counts 14 UK energy providers as customers.

Pictured: Gary Gilburd