IBM Takes on Unilever HR Functions in Latin America; Costa Rica Benefits

IBM’s investment in BPO operations in Latin America continue to payoff with the recent announcement that Unilever will rely on IBM to handle HR functions for its workers in Brazil, Mexico and Chile. Analyst see the move as further indication that large companies are content with splitting up outsourcing functions based on the specializations of providers.
The deal signals another positive sign for Costa Rica, where one of IBM’s near shore BPO hubs is based. Most recent estimates are that close to 40,000 people work in Costa Rica’s call center and IT support industries.
The deal extends an existing contract where IBM provides payroll, benefits administration, employee data management and contact center services for Unilever’s employees.