Page 24 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT MAY 2024

Failed international assignments can cost organisations up to USD

1.25 million, reports International SOS

• The recent findings are backed by International SOS’s report created in collaboration
with KPMG and Ipsos

• In the previous year, around 102 million medial and security alerts as well as special

advisories were proactively distributed by International SOS to mobile workers and
those responsible for ensuring their well-being

UAE, May 2, 2024

International SOS, the world's leading health and security services company, has released
findings and invaluable insights into the financial impact that failed business trips and
international assignments can have on organisations, emphasising the need for effective

strategies and best practices.

The findings, backed by the company’s Return on Investment report created in collaboration
with Ipsos and KPMG, indicate that the cost of an unsuccessful international assignment can
amount to USD 1.25 million. Failed assignments can be caused by a number of reasons,

including neglecting the health, safety, security, and well-being of an organisation’s mobile
workforce.

Commenting on the figure, and the importance of preventative strategies, Katherine
Avery, Tax Principal at KPMG, stated: “With the impact to the business of a failed
international assignment potentially being detrimental, striking a balance between managing

cost and employee experience is vital for the success of any assignment. Engaging with the
internal global mobility team early in the planning stages can be highly beneficial, as their

expertise with the mobility policy and understanding of the organisation, can help to ensure
an optimal employee experience while also effectively managing cost and compliance.”

Last year, International SOS proactively disseminated approximately 102 million medical and
security alerts and special advisories to mobile workers and those responsible for

safeguarding their wellbeing. The Return on Investment report highlights the importance of
this work, especially in light of KPMG’s estimate of the cost of a failed assignment.