A WORCESTER firm is making sure it stays at the top of its game by consolidating its operations on one site.

Misys General Insurance is the UK's leading supplier of software and IT systems to insurance brokers.

Part of Misys Plc - a global software company with a turnover of more than £1bn - Misys General Insurance employs 250 people at its head office in Buckholt Drive, Warndon.

Now, in an attempt to further strengthen its position through improved business efficiency, the firm is moving its entire operation in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, to Worcester.

All 30 specialist staff will be encouraged to relocate to the Faithful City.

A further four people are needed to fill roles at the Worcester headquarters and it is envisaged more people will be required following the integration of the two offices to fulfil the company's growth plans.

Successful product

"The fact that we are a successful market leader is a direct result of the people we employ, the majority of which are from Worcester and the surrounding area," said Phillip Bell, CEO of the company.

"Without them we could not continue to develop innovative products and services for our customers - the UK's leading insurers and brokers - nor could we have the vision to take the company forward. This new phase of expansion in Worcester is a reflection of our forward-thinking approach in an industry that is changing, and will set the pace or future growth."

He said new insurance legislation due to take effect in January 2005, following a Financial Services Authority review, would impact greatly on the industry.

"Our IT solutions will help companies be compliant."

Misys was established in Worcester, as Misys Mini Computer Systems, in 1979, with just 10 members of staff.

It is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Misys Plc, which employs 6,500 people around the world.

The company moved to Buckholt Drive in 1984 from its original premises in St. Nicholas Street, Worcester.