Validata Group (Validata), a leading Dutch technology company specializing in employment screening software, has been acquired by DISA Global Solutions, a leading player in the field of employment screening in the United States. Hogenhouck M&A advised Validata on this transaction.
A strategic step toward international ambition
Validata Group, founded in 2009, is the market leader in software-driven employment screening and conducts tens of thousands of screenings annually for Dutch and international employers. With offices in Amsterdam and Stockholm and a growing customer base in international markets, this acquisition marks a strategic step toward accelerating Validata’s international expansion. As an innovative technology company specializing in screening software, Validata helps organizations worldwide make informed decisions with fast and efficient online screening solutions. With a strong focus on customer-centricity and integrity, Validata helps clients comply with laws and regulations, thereby contributing to a safe work environment.
Harm Voogt, Managing Director and (co-)founder of Validata: “This acquisition marks an important milestone in our company’s history. Our services continue to grow and are becoming increasingly international. This strategic move enables us to better shape that internationalization for our customers, and that is exactly what we were looking for. Together with DISA, we aim to strengthen our national and international market position and continuously improve the value we offer our customers.”
A Harmonious Vision
DISA Global Solutions was founded in 1986 and is a leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. DISA conducts more than ten million screenings per year for clients worldwide, including more than 30% of Fortune 500 companies. With a focus on helping employers make informed hiring decisions and build a culture of safety in the workplace, DISA continues to grow and offer a comprehensive range of services to clients around the world. Since 2022, DISA has been backed by Audax, a leading U.S. mid-market private equity firm, as its major shareholder. The acquisition of Validata marks DISA’s second major international acquisition in the past nine months.
Suzie Rurode, international chair of DISA: “We are delighted to have entered into this partnership. Validata’s advanced technology and exceptional management team align perfectly with our vision. We view this acquisition as much more than just an expansion; it is a merger of forces that will redefine the approach to international screening. Together, it will be much easier to create added value for our esteemed clients.”
Global visibility
Together, Validata and DISA aim to strengthen their national and international market positions and enhance the value they provide to their valued customers.
Validata will remain based in Amsterdam and will operate in accordance with strict European data protection laws. All data processing takes place within Europe, and the data is stored exclusively on servers within the EU.
Buy-and-build process
Hogenhouck M&A advised Validata’s shareholders, led by Victor Rosier, Thijs Piso, and Robin Korver. Victor commented on the process: “The shareholders’ complementary skills, together with their team, have led to Validata’s success. The M&A process was intensive and effective, with significant interest from the market. The acquisition by the U.S. partner DISA opens the door to a global strategy for Validata, enabling the creation of greater value for customers and providing active support for Validata’s management. The transaction offers synergies in terms of technology and local presence. Validata’s software platform will be deployed for DISA’s (new) international customers, while Validata will benefit from DISA’s services in the U.S. and Audax’s expertise in rolling out the desired buy-and-build strategy.”
