JLT Australia has acquired New Zealand vocational rehabilitation services specialist Alpha Consultants, as it continues to grow by buying complementary businesses.

It comes after the broker’s March purchase of workplace health, safety and rehabilitation services company Recovre in Australia.

“This deal is a perfect example of the JLT Group’s strategic focus on investing in our specialist strengths,” CEO Leo Demer said.

Alpha made an approach via healthcare data group NZ Provide, raising the prospect of synergies between the two companies.

“It soon became apparent [Alpha’s] specialist understanding of the market mirrored our own and we are now in a position to build even further in this unique and growing market,” Mr Demer said.

Alpha employs 23 people across six locations on the North Island and is the largest provider of work-ready programs and job search services to the Accident Compensation Corporation.

It also provides services to various government departments, mainly helping beneficiaries return to the workforce and reduce welfare dependence.

Alpha founder Maureen Bray will stay on as CEO to oversee integration into the JLT group and further growth.