SARA – the Swiss Association of Relocation Agents – was founded to promote the concept of relocation in Switzerland and ensure high standards of professionalism. SARA members receive support and advice, participate in training sessions, and have a forum in which to exchange industry information. Members also receive guidance from authorities on local infrastructure and ruling changes. CVCI spoke with Laetitia Menardi-Bédat, President of SARA, to find out more.

What does SARA’s membership look like and what makes them unique?

SARA has twenty-three members in every region of Switzerland, including relocation companies but also HR consulting, cross-cultural training, immigration provider, dual career assistance, language school, moving companies and furniture rental agencies. Members must uphold the association’s Code of Conduct, ensuring the highest level of ethical behavior.

What challenges does the relocation industry currently face?

As a result of the economic crisis, one of the challenges is to help companies involved in cost-cutting measures find creative solutions so that they can to continue to provide support to their relocating employees whilst effectively managing their relocation budgets.

How has the relocation concept changed in the last twenty years?

Relocation was less common and involved mostly families with generous allowances for housing, schooling, etc. Today, international mobility is often fundamental for career development and many companies are hiring young professionals internationally, but with budgets that are more aligned with those of the local population. One of the problems this creates is more competition in a tight housing market.

How does SARA address issues like competition for housing and schooling resources?

SARA has developed tight working relationships with the major actors involved in the relocation of individuals (such as economic development agencies, local chambers of commerce, schools, and the HR community) in order to share information and find solutions.

Contributing Writer: Crissy Mueller