Access Group opens APAC hub in KL, creating over 1k high value jobs by 2027

• Bring in good talent and teach them how the software business works
• Support employees to launch own ventures, enhancing Malaysia’s tech ecosystem

The Access Group, which claims to be one of the largest UK-based business management software providers, with £480 million in revenue in 2023, officially launched its Global Operations Centre (GOC) in Kuala Lumpur on 11 Nov. The GOC is positioned as a key part of Access Group’s Asia Pacific (APAC) expansion strategy, joining innovation hubs in Loughborough, UK, and Timisoara, Romania while providing functions in product engineering, customer success, and operational support.

Currently staffed with 417 employees, CEO Chris Bayne expects the GOC to create over 1,000 high-value jobs by 2027. “We are delighted to be in Kuala Lumpur, a city known for its skilled talent pool and strong business infrastructure. Our new centre will accelerate our growth across the APAC region while providing a workplace that our teams can take pride in,” Bayne said.

The GOC builds on Access Group's growing presence in Malaysia which it entered in 2018 through its acquisitions of UK-based Sage PLC’s Malaysian businesses, iCare and Volcanic, before moving to the current location at The Exchange 106 in the city’s financial district.

[Ed: Para updated for accuracy. An earlier version incorrectly said it entered the country in 2022.]

While the company did not share its total investment into Malaysia since it established a presence in 2018, Terry Taylor (pic), its Chief Operating Officer said, “We’re in the very early stages of our Malaysian growth story and are investing in a combination of physical spaces, in addition to tech capabilities, as well as human capital, over the long term. In fact, our Kuala Lumpur presence – which comprised largely of several businesses that we had acquired – has, since 2022, grown 215% as of October. These will go a long way towards helping The Access Group hit our projected FY2025 global revenue target."

[Ed: Para updated with additional information.]

The group expects its growth to contribute towards Malaysia's digital economy target of creating some 500,000 high-value digital jobs by 2025.

Investing in talent and growth

The KL GOC is focused on recruiting and developing well-educated talent with strong skills in software development and related fields, crucial for supporting Access’ shift into AI-based software solutions.

Taylor highlighted the organisation’s focus on structured learning and internal growth. “At the centre of everything, we're designed to bring in people who are really well educated, with good skills, but we teach them how the software business works, how we write software, how we manage it, how we go digital.”

Taylor noted that Access invests heavily in learning paths to help employees advance, with roles available in support, development, customer success management, and sales. “We invest a lot in learning. It's very important as we develop people... So, we like to move people through the pyramid and develop them at their speed,” he added.

“I hope to see some software companies come out of Access,” Taylor said, expressing hope that some employees may one day launch their own ventures, enhancing Malaysia’s tech ecosystem.

Support from key Malaysian partners

The launch was officiated by Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), with Dr Zaliha Binti Mustafa, Minister of Federal Territories. The participation of two Cabinet ministers underscores Malaysia’s commitment to supporting international partnerships that strengthen the country’s position as a hub for innovation and high-value job creation.

“Kuala Lumpur’s diverse ecosystem provides a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. Access Group’s presence strengthens our city as a vibrant hub for growth, collaboration, and sustainable living,” said Zaliha.

Liew Chin Tong said, “Most people think Malaysia is mainly focused on manufacturing. But by choosing Kuala Lumpur, Access Group highlights our city's appeal as a centre for innovation and global connectivity, where East meets West and opportunities abound.”

Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli, CEO of InvestKL which supported the expansion by guiding Access Group on regulatory processes, local partnerships, and talent acquisition, explained, “At InvestKL, we are dedicated to supporting companies like Access Group as they harness Kuala Lumpur’s potential as a top destination for modern services in the region.”

Community engagement and long-term commitment

Beyond job creation, Access Group prioritises social impact and employee engagement. Through the Access Foundation, the company supports Malaysian charities such as SUKA Society, which advocates for children’s rights. Anderson Selvasegaram, Executive Director at SUKA Society, expressed his appreciation for the partnership. "We are honoured and proud to be your charity partner for the year."

Access has also introduced a staff share scheme that allows over 3,200 employees globally, including those in Malaysia, to hold shares in the company, fostering a culture of ownership and shared success.