VMware brings tech jobs to Cork
22-02-2007
by Charlie Taylor

Virtualisation software firm VMware has confirmed it is to create 369 new jobs at its technical support centre in Ballincollig, Co Cork.

VMware, which is a subsidiary of global information storage giant EMC, established the facility in 2005 to provide technical support to customers in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region.

The company said on Thursday it intends to extend its existing technical support service and to add four new shared services functions: Finance, IT, HR and Sales. The expansion sees the company moving to a new 50,000 square foot leased premises at the Barracks Square in Ballincollig.

It is understood IDA Ireland has assisted in the expansion.

"Our initial experience in Ireland has been great and it was a logical decision to expand our international support centre in Cork. As a company we pride ourselves on the quality of technology, information and support that we give our customers. As our business continues to grow we are confident that the support requirements of our international customers will be met by the team in Cork, which continues to play an important role in both our current and future development," said Mark Stradling, EMEA vice president at VMware.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheal Martin officially opened the new premises on Thursday. He said that VMware's decision to expand its facility was good news for the region which has been badly hit by job cuts in recent weeks.

Around 350 staff at Motorola's facility in Cork currently face an uncertain future, while electronics firm FCI is making 240 people redundant at its plant in Fermoy, Co Cork. In addition, a number of pharmaceutical and food companies based in the area have also announced redundancies.

"The decision by VMware to expand its operation in Cork and create substantial additional employment is very welcome news for the area," said Minister Martin.

"VMware is a highly innovative, cutting-edge company and is achieving a global reputation that is envied by the whole IT industry. It is an excellent addition to the IT and software technology base in Ireland," he added.

EMC currently employs 1,500 people across Ireland. As well as the VMware operation, its facility in Cork includes a manufacturing facility, an international executive briefing centre, EMC's Global Solutions Centre, Worldwide Customer Service Centre, software development and shared services functions.

EMC recently announced its intention to sell approximately 10 percent of VMware via an initial public offering (IPO) of newly issued VMware stock in the summer of 2007.