Profield Acquires Ir Olav to Enhance Technical Talent Pool

Profield, a leader in technical talent acquisition, has acquired Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, a company focused on the international recruitment of professionals in IT, engineering, finance, and technology. This acquisition, announced on February 5, 2026, is part of Profield’s long-term strategy to enhance its offerings and address the evolving needs of the labor market.

Rick van Diermen, co-owner of Profield, emphasized the importance of adapting to changing market conditions. “As the labor market evolves, we must think ahead to remain relevant. We aim to assist clients in the manufacturing and process industries in finding skilled professionals who fit their needs, sometimes looking beyond the Netherlands,” he stated.

The collaboration between Profield and Ir Olav began with a pilot program in 2025, where South African technicians were successfully placed with Profield’s clients. Ir Olav’s Globetrotters provided comprehensive support throughout the relocation process, from preparation to integration in the Netherlands. “Relocation is not just a transaction; it requires preparation, guidance, and attention to the individual,” Van Diermen added.

Ir Olav’s Globetrotters will continue to operate under its own name within the Profield Group, focusing on the international inflow of professionals across various sectors. Meanwhile, Profield will maintain its focus on sourcing technical talent from the Netherlands for the manufacturing and process industries. Sonja Poortman, a representative from Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, remarked, “The partnership with Profield feels like a natural step. We share the same values and complement each other perfectly.”

Diane van Galen Last, another key figure in the acquisition, noted the mutual benefits: “We can now help their clients discover South African technical talent and vice versa.” This acquisition not only strengthens Profield’s market position but also enhances its ability to provide tailored recruitment solutions to clients.

As the integration process unfolds, Profield aims to leverage synergies between the two companies, including shared marketing efforts and streamlined recruitment processes. The acquisition is expected to create new revenue streams and improve client satisfaction through enhanced service offerings.

Looking ahead, Profield will focus on ensuring a smooth integration of Ir Olav’s Globetrotters’ operations while navigating potential challenges, such as cultural integration and maintaining service quality. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for international talent in the technical sectors.