Strategic Build vs. Outsource: Launching a Niche EMEA Business Unit

Challenge

‍The client needed to decide whether to outsource a specialist production capability or build it within a new EMEA business unit. With limited local compensation data, the decision posed both financial and operational risk.

Approach

• Ran a cost-benefit comparison of outsourcing vs. building, modeling short- and long-term costs.
• Mapped talent availability across EMEA, highlighting candidate pools, constraints, and profiles.
• Developed a customized salary benchmark using primary research, competitor comparisons, and local advisor insights.
• Designed a phased hiring plan with clear roles and compensation structures.

Result

• Client chose to establish the EMEA unit with a phased approach.
• A defensible compensation framework enabled competitive yet cost-efficient offers.
• First critical hire was made on time, allowing operations to begin as planned.

Why Equanimity?

‍We excel when the market is opaque and the decision is high-stakes—turning limited data into clear, actionable hiring intelligence.