Medical-device company NuVasive Inc is establishing an international operations centre in Waterford this coming week, and creating up to 30 highly skilled roles over the next two to three years.
NuVasive – which is headquartered in San Diego, California – has already begun recruitment for supply chain, customer service, accounting and IT positions at the Waterford operation.
“We are thrilled to be located in Waterford with access to the strong local talent to support our international operations,” said chair and CEO Alex Lukianov at the recent announcement. “The support from everyone in Ireland has been fantastic and we are excited to grow our presence in the area and improve our international business.”
NuVasive is the fourth-largest player in this US$8.7bn global spinal treatment market, with a comprehensive portfolio of more than 90 products. The company develops minimally disruptive surgical products and procedures for the spine, a European market that’s expected to achieve significant growth on account of an ageing population, a growing number of younger patients, changing lifestyles and product innovations.
“Unique product development by NuVasive has revolutionised spine surgery and recovery timelines. Their decision to locate a new operations centre in Waterford represents a very positive result for the community,” said Barry O’Leary, CEO of IDA Ireland, which has provided support for the investment.
According to O’Leary, NuVasive joins nine of the top 10 global med-tech companies with a base in Ireland, with the south-east region in particular pivoted as a key location for the life-sciences sector.
“A key part of our plan for jobs in the south-east is a directive to the enterprise agencies to put a new focus on the region. In the time since then, we have seen jobs growth of more than 14,000 in the area, and significant announcements by companies supported by my department, although the region continues to face challenges,” said Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton, TD.