Recruitment giant Adecco has put in a bid to acquire e-cruiter Jobpilot. If the acquisition is successful, Jobpilot’s internet platform will be combined with the branch network of Adecco.

The agreed offer price will be 170m on equity basis, equivalent to 15.30 per share, payable on closing the deal. This tender offer was made subject to performance.

Jobpilot’s board of management and supervisory board have approved the offer and are recommending shareholders to accept it at the April AGM.

The three largest shareholders, founder and chief executive Dr Roland Metzger,

United Internet AG and Private Equity Bridge Finance have all agreed to sell their shares to Adecco, accounting for 69% of the company’s outstanding share capital.

On 31 January, Jobpilot reported stabilising revenue and reduced losses for the fourth quarter 2001.

Commenting on the bid, president of Adecco’s career services and e-cruitment

division Bernard Morel (pictured) said: ‘This is a perfect strategic fit for us. The Adecco Group has a long-standing commitment to innovation in e-cruitment. Jobpilot represents an excellent nucleus for our e-cruitment business.’

Founded in 1995, the site operates in 14 European countries.

Adecco reported 2% revenue growth for the fiscal year 2001, though its revenues

contracted 12% in the fourth quarter.

Klaus J Jacobs has stepped down as chairman of Adecco. Current chief executive John Bowmer will take over as chairman and Jérôme Caille will succeed Bowmer as chief executive.