Employee benefits tech just got a shake-up. Selerix, best known for its cloud-based benefits administration and compliance platform, has acquired Steele Benefits, a regional powerhouse in benefits engagement and enrollment.
The move blends Selerix’s tech-driven infrastructure with Steele’s high-touch, people-first approach, creating a unified solution that spans the entire benefits lifecycle—from plan design and enrollment to compliance, communications, and ongoing engagement.
Why This Matters
Benefits technology has long suffered from a split personality. On one side, sleek digital platforms promise efficiency, but often lack the personal support employees need. On the other, boutique firms like Steele provide white-glove service but can’t always scale.
By combining forces, Selerix aims to offer the best of both worlds: a scalable platform with a human touch. Employers, brokers, and carriers get a single system that’s flexible enough to tailor benefits while keeping employees engaged year-round.
“Steele’s reputation for service and integrity fits perfectly with our mission to deliver benefits that benefit people’s lives,” said Tim Pratte, CEO of Selerix. “Together, we’re committed to making the benefits experience better, simpler, and even more human than ever before.”
A Decade in the Making
This isn’t a shotgun wedding. The two companies have worked side by side for more than 10 years. For Steele, known for its culture of “character, growth, service, and teamwork,” the acquisition represents scale without sacrificing identity.
“Our team is home at Selerix, and the future is bright,” said Wes Steele, CEO of Steele Benefits.
Market Impact
The acquisition comes at a time when benefits engagement is moving from a once-a-year HR event to a 365-day employee experience. Platforms like Benefitfocus (acquired by Voya) and PlanSource have already expanded into year-round engagement, signaling a broader industry trend.
With Selerix and Steele joining forces, expect sharper competition in the mid-market—where employers increasingly demand both the efficiency of automation and the empathy of human support.
For brokers and carriers, the playbook is clear: benefits administration can no longer be “check the box.” It must be strategic, personalized, and measurable.
The Bottom Line
Selerix’s acquisition of Steele is more than a merger of tools and services. It’s a signal that the future of benefits is integrated, employee-centered, and always-on.
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