Belfast-based data management firm, AquaQ Analytics, is to invest almost £1m in developing the skills of its growing team.
The investment will support its 180-strong workforce to upskill in data analytics, cloud services and digital transformation for global financial markets and new emerging sectors.
Welcoming the investment, Economy Minister Diane Dodds said: “Skills investment helps a company to lay strong foundations for growth. My Department’s Economy Recovery Action Plan recognises the importance of building Northern Ireland’s skills ecosystem, to enable businesses to succeed at home and in the international marketplace.
“AquaQ Analytics is a great example of a company which has recognised the value of investing in its people to bolster its global competitiveness.
"Last year, I announced its plans to double its workforce with 123 jobs and I am delighted that it has scaled so quickly, with over half of these roles in place," she continued.
"Its focus is now to ensure its team has the right skillsets to capitalise on new global business opportunities. These types of investments will play a vital role as the Northern Ireland economy recovers stronger from the pandemic.”
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Ivy McFarlane, Director of Business Development at AquaQ Analytics added: “As our company grows we need to ensure our employees, both existing and new, are equipped with the right expertise to excel in our key product areas and new markets.
"We want to expand their skillsets through new machine-learning techniques and software training, to offer our clients up-to-date, advanced product offerings that match their data needs.
“Additionally, we are implementing a bespoke Sales Development Programme to build team confidence for selling in global markets.
"Our team development will also focus on employee wellbeing, mental health awareness and managing change so that there is a positive, supportive working environment both in the office and remotely.”
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Invest Northern Ireland is now offering £150,654 of support towards the company’s skills development programme, having previously helped with the creation of AquaQ's 123 jobs in 2020.
Kevin Holland, CEO of Invest NI commented: “As AquaQ Analytics’ employee base continues to increase, it is crucial that it develops the skills needed to remain competitive globally.
"We have supported the company with job creation and extensive trade support, particularly in the Singapore market. Now, our Skills for Growth support will enable the company to build a team with the expert knowledge, skillsets and confidence to create business opportunities across multiple geographic locations.
“By helping the company to build important business relationships, along with growing its team and skills development, our ongoing support is helping the company to increase its global reach and achieve new international sales.”
