‘Reputation as technology hub reaffirmed’ as 300 jobs unveiled

The decision by a global software security firm to create 150 engineering jobs in Cork reaffirms Ireland’s reputation as a global technology hub, ICT Ireland said yesterday.

FireEye’s announcement that it was establishing its European technical support centre at an unidentified location in the city, came as marketing software company Hub Spot also officially announced the creation of around 150 jobs in Dublin.

FireEye is described as a “leading provider of software protection against web and email next-generation security threats”.

The US firm is looking for level one, two and three support engineers. Recruitment is to commence immediately.

ICT Ireland, the IBEC group that represents the high-tech sector, welcomed the announcement.

ICT Ireland director Paul Sweetman said: “The growth of the technology sector in Ireland is continuing at pace.

“Over 1,140 jobs have now been announced since the start of the year by multinational and indigenous technology companies. This announcement reaffirms Ireland’s reputation as a global technology hub. Welcome initiatives such as visa reform and a commitment by Government to make Ireland the most attractive location for tech talent are contained in the 2013 Action Plan for Jobs. To maintain Ireland’s global reputation, rapid implementation of these initiatives is crucial.”

Tony Kolish, FireEye’s senior vice president for customer support, said putting its EMEA technical support centre in Ireland “was an obvious choice due to the country’s successful track record in technology, an existing cluster of high-tech companies, and the availability of competent, multilingual talent”.

IDA chief executive Barry O’Leary said the software developed by FireEye helps companies defend against sudden attacks on their IT systems, as well as “advanced persistent threats” which involves the detection of on-going hacking.

Meanwhile, fellow US firm Hub Spot is also locating its European headquarters in Dublin. The 150 roles, 30 of which are already filled, were first mooted at the end of last year and are in software engineering, sales and customer support. They will be rolled out over the next three years.

The office will target the 8% of HubSpot’s 8,600 customers are outside the US and Canada.