HCL signs $500 mn IT deal with pharma co

Software firm HCL Technologies today said that it has signed a five-year IT management deal worth $500 million with pharma giant MSD.

HCL will extend its relationship with MSD, dating back to 2004, to become an integral business and technology services partner, HCL Technologies said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Under the agreement, HCL will provide a multitude of services, including software-led IT solutions, remote infrastructure management, engineering and business and knowledge process services.

"For five years, MSD has leveraged HCL's extensive expertise in life sciences and healthcare to streamline operational efficiencies and consolidate its IT portfolio," MSD Vice President (Application Services) Richard G Branton said.

MSD will leverage HCL's near-shore delivery network in the US. As a result of this engagement, HCL will expand its US team in North Carolina, relying on local hires to staff projects, it said.

"This is a landmark win for HCL and we are proud that our growing leadership in pharmaceutical and healthcare, coupled with our previous delivery for MSD has positioned HCL as a strategic partner for MSD," HCL President (Americas) Shami Khorana said.