Beeline, the leading technology solution provider for managing the global extended workforce, today announced the acquisition of MBO Partners, the premier solution for engaging and managing high-value independent workers, a portfolio company of Emerald Lake Capital Management. This strategic move cements Beeline’s unique position as the only platform purpose-built to manage and optimize every type of external talent — including contingent workers, independent contractors (ICs), consultants, gig workers and payrolled professionals — within a single, compliant, and insight-rich ecosystem.
Contingent labor continues to offer agility and cost efficiency in an evolving labor landscape, and independent talent is among the fastest growing segments. The number of independent contractors in the U.S. has surged by 42.3% since 2021 reaching 72.7 million in 2024 — underscoring a massive, untapped talent pool for enterprises investing in flexible workforce strategies.
As this segment expands, it also faces heightened scrutiny from regulators and tax authorities adding to the complexity of managing a mix of skilled tradespeople, white-collar professionals, shift-based workers, and independent contractors across global markets. Companies that lack a comprehensive Vendor Management System (VMS) risk losing access to critical skills and competitive advantages that come from top external talent.
“Managing independent contractors outside the VMS has historically led to fragmentation, inefficiency, and unnecessary risk,” said Doug Leeby, CEO of Beeline. “With this acquisition, we’re excited to offer a cohesive, global solution that brings structure, compliance, and a seamless experience for the entire extended workforce.”
MBO Partners delivers solutions that make it easier for leading enterprises and high-impact independent contractors to compliantly work together. Through its proprietary platform, MBO Partners has built a comprehensive workforce ecosystem that fuels both sides of the independent economy. Since its founding in 1996, MBO Partners has supported more than 500,000 client projects and has served hundreds of thousands of independent professionals and nearly 4,000 companies.
Leeby continued, “MBO Partner’s mission — to empower independent professionals and increase enterprise agility — aligns perfectly with Beeline’s values and commitment to client success. Their trusted relationships with leading global brands make MBO Partners a strategic and cultural fit that further strengthens our leadership position in total talent management.”
“Joining forces with Beeline marks an exciting new chapter for MBO Partners and the independent workforce we serve,” said Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners. “This combination accelerates our shared mission to simplify and elevate how companies engage independent talent — providing a seamless, compliant, and scalable path to access the skills they need to succeed.”
More information can be found here: beeline.com
Lazard served as the financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to MBO Partners in connection with this transaction.
