New HP Innovation Centre opens in Galway

30 Apr 2015

HP’s year-long project to build its new R&D cloud facility is finally complete, and will house 700 of the company’s Irish workforce.

The facility actually makes Galway a centre for excellence within HP’s global operations, focusing on software R&D, OpenStack cloud technology and business service innovation.

“Our customers need technology-enabled solutions to differentiate their businesses from their competition,” said John Hinshaw, HP’s chief customer officer.

“The research and development investments we are making in Ireland will ensure HP is leading the way with innovative solutions for our customers’ future.”

HP actually employs thousands of workers in Ireland, with this facility one of a number throughout the country created since it first opened a manufacturing facility in Ballybrit, the home of this new facility.

The creation of the Global Services Desk in March 2009 generated 500 jobs, and the expansion of the company’s Galway operation in 2010 spawned 50 jobs.

In addition, the company announced 120 jobs at its Dublin operations in September 2010 and 105 jobs at its Galway operations in December 2010, followed by a further 50 new jobs.

When announcing this facility more than a year ago, 100 new jobs were pencilled in for the new centre.

“This is an exciting and proud day for all HP employees in Ireland,” said Martin Murphy, MD of HP Ireland.

“This new Innovation Centre demonstrates HP’s commitment to Ireland, our investment in high-tech jobs, strong links with Irish universities and contribution to the economy nationally and regionally.”

Gordon Hunt was a journalist with Silicon Republic

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