Global group finds rich talent in North

Jan 12 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

GLOBAL IT group Hewlett Packard is playing a part in retaining technology talent in the North-East by forging links with universities.

Headed by Tim Haines, HP Newcastle employs staff from 22 countries at the city’s Cobalt Business Park offices.

Staff numbers there are growing 10% a quarter. The office’s main focus is offering IT support for printers and other equipment, and providing services and applications such as payroll and logistics.

Staff in Newcastle work with FTSE-100 companies as well as co-ordinating and managing projects in Costa Rica, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Poland and Slovakia.

Along with Manchester, Newcastle is the company’s project management front office, dealing with customers ranging from telecoms companies to breweries.

Tim, 34, who studied mechanical engineering and started his career with ICI, said: “A lot of our work comes off the back of existing customers, but we have significant new customers coming on board, such as a large clothing retailer.” HP presents an annual prize for a computing project by Newcastle University students and members of the team deliver guest lectures. The business also offers student placements.

“A lot of staff come from recruitment through local universities. Newcastle can certainly hold its own on the calibre of individuals and the ability to deliver,” said Tim.

Karen Dent