Global cybersecurity firm Innovatech Solutions has announced a major £50 million investment to establish its new Northern UK headquarters in Liverpool. The move is set to create approximately 500 high-skilled technology jobs over the next three years, significantly boosting the city's burgeoning digital sector.
The new headquarters will be located in the Paddington Village area of the Knowledge Quarter, placing the company at the heart of Liverpool's innovation district. Recruitment for the initial phase of roles is expected to begin in the final quarter of this year, with the office scheduled to be fully operational by mid-2025.
Key Takeaways
- Innovatech Solutions is investing £50 million in a new Northern UK headquarters in Liverpool.
- The project will create around 500 new jobs in fields like cybersecurity, AI, and software development.
- The new office will be located in Paddington Village, within the Knowledge Quarter innovation district.
- The move reinforces Liverpool's status as a leading UK hub for technology and innovation.
A Landmark Investment for Liverpool's Tech Scene
Innovatech's decision marks one of the most significant private-sector investments in Liverpool's tech economy in the last decade. The £50 million commitment covers the long-term lease and state-of-the-art fit-out of several floors in a newly constructed building in Paddington Village, as well as investment in local talent development programs.
The company plans a phased recruitment drive, aiming to fill 150 positions within the first 12 months. These roles will span a range of specialisms, including cybersecurity analysis, artificial intelligence research, software engineering, and data science. A significant portion of the new jobs will be senior and lead positions, attracting top talent to the region.
Job Creation Breakdown
The 500 new roles are expected to be created over a 36-month period, with an average starting salary projected to be 25% above the regional average for the tech sector, according to company statements.
Why Liverpool Was Chosen
According to Innovatech, Liverpool was selected after a competitive process involving several major northern cities. The decision was influenced by the city's dynamic talent pool, world-class universities, and the collaborative environment fostered within the Knowledge Quarter.
The proximity to the University of Liverpool's computer science and engineering departments was cited as a key factor. Innovatech plans to establish a formal partnership with local universities to create graduate schemes and research collaborations, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals.
"Liverpool presents a unique combination of a vibrant culture, a deep well of technical talent, and a clear, ambitious vision for its future as a global innovation hub. We are not just opening an office; we are investing in a community and building a long-term partnership with the city." – Jane Foster, CEO of Innovatech Solutions
Economic Impact and Regional Significance
The arrival of a major global tech player like Innovatech is expected to have a ripple effect across the Liverpool City Region's economy. Local leaders have hailed the announcement as a vote of confidence in the city's economic strategy and its focus on high-growth sectors.
The project is forecast to contribute an estimated £30 million annually to the local economy once fully staffed. This includes direct employment and indirect benefits for local businesses in the supply chain, from hospitality to professional services.
The Knowledge Quarter (KQ Liverpool)
KQ Liverpool is a 450-acre urban innovation district that is home to some of the world's most influential players in science, health, technology, education, and culture. The area includes institutions like the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, creating a dense ecosystem for research and development.
A Catalyst for Further Growth
Economic analysts suggest that Innovatech's presence will act as a catalyst, attracting other tech firms and specialised talent to the area. This clustering effect is crucial for building a resilient and self-sustaining tech ecosystem that can compete on a national and international level.
Liam Thorpe, Leader of Liverpool City Council, expressed his optimism about the project.
"This is a landmark day for Liverpool. Innovatech’s decision to establish their major northern base here is a testament to the hard work that has gone into building our city's reputation as a forward-thinking and welcoming place for business. These 500 jobs will provide incredible opportunities for our residents." – Liam Thorpe, Leader, Liverpool City Council
Recruitment and Community Engagement
Innovatech has confirmed that its recruitment process will prioritize local and regional talent. The company will host a series of career fairs and open-day events in Liverpool over the coming months to connect with potential candidates. Initial job postings are expected to go live in October.
In addition to direct hiring, the company is launching a community engagement program. This includes:
- STEM Education Partnerships: Working with local schools and colleges to promote careers in technology.
- Digital Skills Bootcamps: Offering free training programs for residents looking to transition into the tech industry.
- Support for Local Startups: A mentorship program connecting Innovatech experts with emerging tech entrepreneurs in the city.
This multi-faceted approach aims to ensure the benefits of the investment are felt broadly across the community, fostering a more inclusive digital economy. The firm's commitment to developing homegrown talent is seen as a critical component of its long-term strategy in the region.