By Business & Finance IT and engineering recruitment specialists Oxford International, a division of On Assignment, today announced a new €16m investment at its Cork-based European headquarters which will result in the creation of more than 50 new jobs over the next 18 months.
The move will nearly double the number of employees to 130 at Oxford International’s Penrose Quay facility, making it the largest recruitment office in the Southern region, Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD was told during a visit to its Cork office today.
“I’m delighted to welcome the announcement of 56 new jobs in Oxford International’s European HQ, the Taoiseach said. ”This is a great boost for Cork city and for making recovery local in every part of the country. We are building the recovery on the principles of jobs, stability and growth and the Government will continue to support enterprise as we make our country an attractive location to invest, expand and create new jobs.”
Oxford is a division of On Assignment which has over 2,850 employees in its network of approximately 130 branch offices throughout the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Ireland, Belgium and Spain. The expansion in Cork will make it On Assignment’s largest European office and the flagship of their business in Europe.
Oxford’s president, Michael J. McGowan, said at the announcement: “Cork has been the hub of our European activity since opening our first office here in 1994. Our workforce has steadily grown because of the quality talent pool available in the region. The ease of access to our European markets make it the ideal place to do business.”
Oxford’s annual European revenue has increased organically by 400% from 2009 to 2013. Oxford International’s Cork office primarily serves markets in Western and Central Europe, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe. The new jobs are primarily Recruiters, Account Managers and administrative positions.
John Murray, Oxford’s vice president, European Operations said: “We’re delighted this expansion is taking place in Cork, and that’s due to the incredible work and commitment of our local team here as well as the continued support we receive from our US head office and senior management,” Mr Murray continued. “I’d also like to thank the IDA for the invaluable assistance they’ve given us since we’ve located here.”
Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton TD said: “This is a very welcome announcement for Cork and for Ireland. ICT is a sector which we have specifically targeted as part of our Action Plan for Jobs, and today’s announcement demonstrates the continued jobs growth in this area. I wish Oxford International every success with this project.”
