The world has changed dramatically, and we have changed with it. Today’s global business leaders know they need to plan well and prepare their organisation, not just react when something goes wrong.
Co-Founder and Group Medical Director, Dr Pascal Rey-Herme.
Due to the perma-crisis environment, organisations need, more than ever, workforce health & security resiliency to enable an effective rebound from challenging times and ensure long-term success.
Co-Founder, Chair and CEO, Arnaud Vaissié
Our story began almost 40 years ago. While working at the French Embassy in Jakarta in the early 1980s, Pascal Rey-Herme, a French doctor spotted a real need: How to deliver international standards of healthcare and emergency medical assistance to the wider expatriate community and international organisations in the region. He discussed his ideas with his childhood friend, senior businessman, Arnaud Vaissié.
In 1985, they set up AEA International. Its purpose was to provide clients with access to local assistance services, clinics, centres of medical excellence, and evacuations when needed. Starting with just 15 staff, AEA International grew rapidly from its base in Singapore and Indonesia into a pan-Asian corporation. In 1998, AEA International acquired International SOS Assistance, and the business was renamed International SOS.
Over the years, International SOS spread across the globe. As well as expanding geographically, it also expanded its services. Thanks to a series of key acquisitions, and strategic partnerships with leading organisations, we are now able to deliver health, safety and security across the world.
From East to West
Taking readers through our first 30 years, From East to West highlights our milestones and pays tribute to all those involved in our growth.Read the bookOur Story
From our beginnings to key highlights, see some of the crises we have responded to and who we are today.Watch Video40 Years of Saving Lives
In this special edition of Hotline, the Founders reflect on how it all began.Download Now