ICT expertise and quality graduates draws in Quest

THE presence of key technology companies such as Apple, EMC, Solarwinds and VMware coupled with a supply of quality third-level graduates played a key role in securing 150 high tech jobs with Quest Software in Cork.

President and chief executive of Quest Software Doug Garn disclosed yesterday that they have spent four years looking around the globe to set up the NASDAQ-quoted company’s third shared services centre.

They already have similar operations in China and the US.

Speaking in Cork, Mr Garn said Ireland was chosen for the new centre due to the significant presence of other software technology companies, high-quality infrastructure, availability of experienced highly qualified professionals, and a pro-business environment.

“After a strategic review of our international operations, it was clear we could best position ourselves for future growth by centralising key aspects of our international business activities to better serve our customers and increase operational efficiency.

“Ireland was chosen due to the significant presence of other software technology companies; the high quality infrastructure; the availability of experienced and highly qualified professionals, multilingual talent and a pro-business environment. IDA Ireland has been a key partner in making the decision to locate in Ireland the right one for Quest.”

IDA Ireland’s regional manager Mary Buckley said eight of the world’s top 10 technology firms are based in Ireland and Quest Software’s move to choose Cork for the international shared services centre following a global evaluation of sites shows that we have the local talent pool, infrastructure and business environment to draw high-tech investments.

“Already, Cork has a vibrant ICT sector, with about 8,000 high-tech workers employed by IDA Ireland client firms in the county so the announcement strengthens our value proposition to the global investor community.”

Chief executive Barry O’Leary said IDA Ireland has to vigorously compete for the most sought-after investments, adding that the Quest move was the result of many years of discussion with the company.

“It is our ability to attract leading-edge global companies and encourage the addition of core activities within our existing companies that will continue to place Ireland ahead of the competition,” he said.

A further 100 jobs are to be created in Tuam by Valeo which is to invest an additional €17m in its research and development programme.