Invensys, the global technology group, has outsourced its HR and payroll processes for 21,000 staff across 50 countries.

The firm will work with NorthgateArinso to implement a self-service element so staff can manage HR administration themselves, taking the pressure off the HR team and allowing it to concentrate on strategic plans.

The seven-year contract, worth £35 million will mean HR, payroll, learning and compensation performance management will all be outsourced and Invensys will also outsource payroll in some countries.

Paula Larson, European vice-president, HR at Invensys, said: "We started to review our options to provide a better HR service to our internal clients and this partnership will transform the way we provide the service at a lower cost."