Grant Thornton is to create 71 new jobs as the professional services firm expands in Belfast.
Enterprise minister Jonathan Bell made the announcement at the official opening of the accountancy firm’s new offices in Belfast.
Mr Bell said: “This is an important strategic investment by Grant Thornton, one of the world’s leading independent assurance, tax and advisory firms.
“Invest NI assistance has acted as the catalyst to securing the continued services of this firm in Northern Ireland and the creation of 71 new jobs in this location against competition from other Grant Thornton offices in the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the UK. When the new jobs are in place, they will generate an additional £1.2million per annum for the Northern Ireland economy.
“With roles available across a variety of functions, these jobs will provide a wide range of opportunities for people at various stages of their career, from school leavers to experienced professionals.
“This decision to expand is a boost for Northern Ireland’s economy and further emphasises the value which Grant Thornton places on the skilled and educated workforce available here.”
Grant Thornton is a professional services firm and a member of Grant Thornton International Limited, which operates in over 120 countries.
Invest NI is giving the company £202,000 in employment grants to support the 71 jobs which will be split across two offices in Belfast.
Partner in Charge of Grant Thornton, Northern Ireland LLP Richard Gillan said: “These new positions represent the first step of a growth programme for Grant Thornton in Northern Ireland over the coming years. The professionals employed will be based in Northern Ireland, providing specialist tax, audit and advisory services to local businesses.
“Grant Thornton (NI) LLP has witnessed significant growth over the last 12 months and we expect this trend to continue as we build the team and the firm’s offering of services to an expanding client base.”
Head of Audit, Grant Thornton UK LLP Mark Cardiff said the expansion marks an “exciting chapter in our growth”.
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Captions: Pictured with Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell at the company offices are Mark Cardiff, Head of Audit, Grant Thornton UK LLP and Richard Gillan, Partner in Charge, Grant Thornton NI LLP. William Cherry / Press Eye.