Worldwide ERC

WERC (formerly known as Worldwide ERC or the Employee Relocation Council) is a non-profit professional association for the global talent mobility industry. Founded in 1964, the organization serves as a network for professionals and corporations involved in moving and managing employees across domestic and international borders. WERC is headquartered in Washington, D.C., has 5,000+ members, and uses the tagline, "Talent Everywhere."

History

The organization was established in 1964 as the Employee Relocation Real Estate Advisory Council (ERREAC) by 26 companies looking to share information on employee transfers. It eventually shortened its name to the Employee Relocation Council (ERC) and later became Worldwide ERC to reflect its expanding global scope.

In 2024, coinciding with its 60th anniversary, the organization rebranded to WERC (stylized in all caps). This change marked a strategic shift from a focus strictly on "workforce relocation" to the broader concept of talent mobility, which encompasses the strategic movement of employees, remote work compliance, and global workforce planning.

Professional Certifications

WERC is the awarding body for two primary professional designations in the mobility industry:

  • Certified Relocation Professional (CRP®): A designation for professionals demonstrating mastery of the U.S. domestic relocation process, including real estate, policy, and tax.
  • Global Mobility Specialist (GMS®): A certification focusing on international mobility, global human resources, and intercultural management. The GMS-T® is an advanced specialized track for talent management.

Programs, Events, and Advocacy

WERC facilitates industry standards and provides education on topics such as immigration policy, corporate duty of care, and relocation tax services. The organization also hosts several annual industry conferences, including WERC Global and regional summits in the APAC and LATAM regions.

Through its advocacy efforts, WERC serves as a liaison between the mobility industry and government bodies, providing updates and guidance on legislative issues such as H-1B visa law, U.S. tax reform, and sustainable mobility initiatives through the Coalition for Greener Mobility.