Davies today announces the acquisition of Codebase8 Limited, the automation, modernisation and digital solutions provider and consultancy firm, based in Llanelli, Wales. Codebase8 specialises in robotic process automation (RPA), legacy platform modernisation and product development for clients in the insurance and other highly regulated markets.  The insurance market is undergoing significant transformation, with participants seeking to harness the power of automation and digital transformation to provide: competitive edge, to streamline their delivery and service, and to manage operating costs. 

The deal, which completed at the end of March, will see the firm’s team of technology experts join Davies’ Consulting & Technology business, led by CEO Mark Grocott, creating a new Automation capability to offer to Davies global insurance clients.  The Codebase8 team will work alongside Davies’ Customer Experience practice, Ember, led by David Leedham. Liz Callaghan, Managing Director of Codebase8, will continue to lead the business, supported by Technical Director and Head of Operations, Craig John.  The deal marks Davies second acquisition of 2020, following the acquisition of Keoghs, the insurance-focused, top-50 law firm, which was announced in January and completed earlier in March. 

In recent years Davies has increased its annual investments in innovation and digital transformation more than four-fold, including in its CQ claims processing platform, its video and drone claims handling solutions, as well as investing in automation, speech analytics and virtual reality training solutions.   

Globally Davies has operating centres across the UK, Ireland, Bermuda, the US and Canada.  The business delivers professional services and technology solutions across the risk and insurance value chain, including excellence in claims, underwriting, distribution, regulation, customer experience, human capital, digital transformation & change management. 

Dan Saulter, Group Chief Executive of Davies said: “I’m delighted to welcome Liz, Craig and the wider team to Davies.  The acquisition brings new digital capability for Davies as we continue our strategy of investing in technology and innovation, a focus that is even more important as we think ahead following COVID-19.  Digital transformation and automation presents a huge opportunity for the insurance industry and for our clients as they seek to maintain competitive advantage, streamline their operations, and deliver service excellence.” 

Elisabeth Callaghan, Managing Director of Codebase8 added: “I’m really pleased Codebase8 is becoming part of Davies which has a shared focus on digital transformation and innovation. I look forward to working with Dan, Mark and the wider Davies team to develop and strengthen our Automation solutions for our clients.”