The history of Workforce Holdings
From simple beginnings to a global presence, our story is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose.
In 1972, Ronny Katz (CEO) founded Workforce Holdings as a small side business in Johannesburg. What started with the placement of 16 boilermakers quickly turned into pioneering one of South Africa’s first outsourcing businesses.
Within a few years, we expanded beyond Gauteng, opened our first Durban and Cape Town branches, and laid the foundations for what would become a national and later international group.
Built on trust and integrity
From standing on the back of a bakkie handing out wages, to investing in digital payroll systems that set new industry standards, Workforce has always put people first. Our unwavering commitment to paying our assignees on time and in full earned us the trust of workers and clients alike, trust that remains the cornerstone of our business today.
Growing through change
The 1990s brought challenges as labour broking came under scrutiny. Instead of retreating, we adapted. We diversified our services, creating Training Force, acquiring Fempower, and later establishing multiple clusters spanning Staffing & Outsourcing, Recruitment, Training & Consulting, Healthcare, and Financial Services. This cluster model made Workforce more resilient and positioned us as a leader in integrated human capital solutions.
A people-powered business
Workforce Holdings has always been more than systems and structures, it’s people who make the difference. Generations of employees, many with decades of service, embody the expertise, care, and tenacity that define us. From the earliest days of three employees in Johannesburg to more than 1 200 permanent staff and 25 000 assignees placed weekly, our story has always been about people uplifting people.
Expanding beyond borders
Today, Workforce Holdings spans four continents and 15 countries, with a growing footprint in Africa, South America, and Europe. With over 100 branches worldwide, we partner with clients across industries and geographies, delivering trusted, scalable solutions wherever they are needed.
Looking ahead
Our legacy is not just behind us, it lives in the choices we make today and the opportunities we create for tomorrow. With strong leadership, an experienced executive team, and a pipeline of future leaders, Workforce Holdings is built for sustainable success. We are committed to growing responsibly, shaping industries, and creating meaningful impact for decades to come.
