When everyone is on the same wavelength regarding approach and future vision, and the anticipated synergies will benefit all parties, it makes sense to join forces. Arch and Beyond Data fully recognized this, and today, they are proud to announce a strategic share transaction supported by Select Group. This transaction takes place within the framework of a Smart Deal, with Select Group as a strategic partner and controlling shareholder.
The most fruitful collaborations arise from customer needs, which is precisely the case in this strategic share transaction. Arch’s experience with complex, C-level-driven transformation processes, Beyond Data’s expertise in data and data architecture, and Select Group’s broad HR solutions and consultancy expertise merge into a unique service offering.
Select Group, Arch, and Beyond Data in a Nutshell
Since 2004, under the leadership of Bart Gonnissen, Select Group has developed into a reliable partner for organizations striving for sustainable growth and development. The company offers high-quality, tailor-made HR solutions, focusing on strengthening both individuals and teams. Select Group’s services include recruitment & selection, temporary employment, project sourcing, recruitment services, interim management, consultancy, and outplacement. With in-depth labor market knowledge and a personalized approach, Select Group successfully helps companies attract, develop, and retain top talent.
“Select Group provides high-quality project solutions and HR services. All our solutions facilitate the growth of people and organizations, enabling them to become the best versions of themselves,” says CEO Bart Gonnissen. “Our mission is to help companies optimize their human capital so they can not only grow but also excel in a rapidly changing world.”
For over 25 years, Arch has guided complex projects for clients in both the public and private sectors, from strategy to implementation and embedding within the organization. The emphasis is always on co-creation, whether it’s a short advisory assignment or a comprehensive transformation project. Managing Partner Bert Kuypers explains: “The client knows their organization best, which is why we always keep them in the driver’s seat. Our role is that of a co-pilot who thoroughly understands the route to a successful transformation and can adjust course when necessary.”
Beyond Data started over 15 years ago under the name Agilos, initially as a distributor of the analytics tool Qlik. Over the years, it has evolved into an end-to-end data specialist with expertise across the entire data flow—from collecting and structuring data to visualizing insights and making informed decisions. “Making decisions and mapping out action plans can only be done with an optimal data platform that includes the right data and adheres to good governance principles,” says Beyond Data CEO Koen De Koker. “Organizations must be able to work with data in a reliable and fast manner—especially in turbulent times with various crises.”
One Plus One Equals Three
“The demand for data in the market is very high today,” says Bert Kuypers, Managing Partner of Arch, highlighting the importance of players like Beyond Data. “At the same time, we see that many clients clearly want to place their data strategies within an appropriate strategic framework.” This all leads to data-driven decision-making, which is particularly crucial during transformations. “Many organizations strive to support their decision-making in these processes in a solid and objective way. This is precisely what we are focusing on with this strategic collaboration.”
Bringing ARCH and Beyond Data under a shared holding and integrating them into Select Group is a ‘match made in heaven.’ Each party has already been guiding both private companies and public organizations in its own way, and now, by joining forces, they elevate their support to an even higher—more client-focused—level. Naturally, the collaboration will create operational synergies, but more importantly, it will lead to content-based win-win situations and optimized services.
One plus one equals three, Kuypers emphasizes. “Our consultants specialize in processes and structures at the management level. However, diving deep into an organization’s ‘data engine’ is less in our DNA. That’s precisely where Beyond Data adds value—they know exactly how to measure the temperature of that engine and identify challenges. By combining their data expertise with our C-level experience, we can provide clients with the best possible support.”
Koen De Koker also looks forward to the collaboration: “Having management involved in driving transformation and raising awareness about the fundamental role of data is a tremendous advantage. This way, a comprehensive vision emerges where strategy and data go hand in hand.”
In most projects led by Arch and Beyond Data, the need for human talent becomes evident. The addition of Select Group’s broad range of services in consultancy, assessments, recruitment, interim management, and project sourcing further completes the solutions available to clients.
From Small Deal to Smart Deal
Since involving people within an organization properly is crucial in complex transformation challenges, Select Group’s role is essential in this venture. The leading international HR services company, led by Bart Gonnissen, Jelle Destoop, and Charlot Van Ussel, has been a stakeholder in ARCH since 2021 via a Small Deal, which has been highly beneficial for all parties. Now, Select Group is stepping into this new venture to further expand its consultancy activities.
This new Smart Deal officially combines Arch and Beyond Data’s activities, with Select Group acquiring a controlling stake. The existing management teams of both companies will remain in place while also gaining broader representation in the shareholder structure.
Thanks to this formula, a versatile, future-proof, and always customer-centric consultancy company is born—built on a strong underlying structure and offering a unique blend of strategic, technological, and human competencies.
