When this market research and brand consulting firm first partnered with ACS in 2007, it operated three locations across three states. ACS was engaged to establish the company’s corporate insurance policies and design a comprehensive health insurance plan for its employees. As the firm rapidly expanded across the U.S., ACS provided strategic guidance on navigating complex workers' compensation regulations and state-specific insurance requirements. By implementing tailored compliance strategies and cost-containment measures, ACS helped the company meet its regulatory obligations while minimizing financial impact.

Navigating a PEO Transition & Cost Transparency

As the firm continued its growth trajectory, leadership sought ways to streamline administration and control rising health insurance costs. This led to a decision to enter a co-employment arrangement with a professional employer organization (PEO) through its payroll provider. While the move promised simplified administration, the client retained ACS as its trusted advisor for corporate property and liability policies.

However, after nine months with the PEO, the client asked ACS to conduct a comprehensive audit of its payroll, workers’ compensation, and benefits. The review uncovered significant inefficiencies, including hidden administrative costs and a lack of cost transparency.

With ACS’s guidance, the client transitioned out of the PEO and back to independently managed benefits and payroll, reducing administrative expenses by 20% while regaining full financial visibility and control.

Rebuilding & Optimizing Employee Benefits

Following the transition, ACS worked closely with the client to design and implement a best-in-class employee benefits program that would support both operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. The new program featured:

• National health, dental, and vision insurance plans, ensuring comprehensive coverage for employees across multiple states.
• Life and disability insurance, providing financial security for employees and their families.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for medical and dependent care, offering tax advantages and greater financial flexibility.
• A commuter benefits program covering transit and parking expenses, enhancing convenience for employees in urban locations.
  

To simplify administration and improve the employee experience, ACS integrated the benefits program into an intuitive online benefits portal seamlessly linked with an employee self-service payroll system. This digital transformation streamlined enrollment, reduced administrative burdens, and enhanced transparency for both HR teams and employees.

Supporting Long-Term Growth & Competitive Positioning

As the company continued expanding, ACS played a key role in ensuring its property and liability coverages evolved to address emerging business risks. From protecting physical assets to advising on directors and officers (D&O) liability and employment practices liability (EPL), ACS provided proactive risk management solutions tailored to the firm’s evolving needs.

Today, the client has grown into a national leader with locations in 15 states. With ACS’s strategic support, the firm has built an industry-leading compensation and benefits package, strengthening its ability to attract and retain top talent from competitors. By aligning risk management, employee benefits, and financial strategy, ACS has helped position the company for sustained growth, stability, and continued success in a highly competitive market.

This is a case study for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as a recommendation. It may not be representative of your experience.