A Sunderland software business is set for expansion after a series of contract wins means it needs to almost double its headcount.
Saggezza based in the Sunderland Software Centre offers software technology solutions to a range of clients both nationally and internationally. The business, which currently employs 20 people in Sunderland, is now adding to its number with 15 new immediate appointments, at graduate level and above, having won new work that means rapid expansion is necessary.
The Chicago headquartered business, which moved to Sunderland just over two years ago, has made a long-term commitment to the city, with intentions to grow its number by at least 15 to 20 per annum. The business, which has offices around the world, chose Sunderland to be its first UK base outside London, and is capitalising on the heavy investment in the software and technology facilities in the city, with new UK appointments being concentrated to its Sunderland site.
Martin Williams, Saggezza’s managing director of UK operations, said he was delighted to be adding to the team again.
He said: “We have seen excellent growth since we took on the Sunderland office, and we have been delighted with the calibre of talent we have been able to attract to Saggezza, with some fantastic graduates joining the team from the University of Sunderland, as well as other North East universities.
“We have been clear about our intention to grow the UK business, with our Sunderland site being the driving force, and the decision to immediately add 15 new members of staff to this site is a statement of our commitment to the North East.”
Alex Woodhouse, HR and operations assistant, leading the Sunderland office, said: “We are working really closely with universities in the area to help draw the best talent. We have a tremendous base in the Software Centre and we are at the heart of a region that has a rich talent pool to draw from, so it’s an easy decision for us to invest in Sunderland.”
Saggezza helps business accelerate growth and uncover opportunities, providing expertise in the areas of big data analytics, customer communications management, and user experience design. The company has clients in South Africa, the US and India.
Since the company opened its UK operations in 2010 it has enjoyed significant growth, much of which has been spurred on by the Sunderland team. The company has offices in India and the US, and the teams are able to work across sites, meaning international work opportunities and the ability to progress quickly through the business.
Lucy Harber, HR director at Saggezza, added: “We reward talent, and part of the offer is a fast-track technical lead programme, which can see our recruits move through the ranks very quickly, with the chance to advance their career globally with the business. There are limitless opportunities within the business, and we believe this has allowed us to attract great talent – and is what we hope will bring in the best team as we add to our number again.”
The business also offers an education reimbursement programme, allowing employees to complete additional qualifications and reclaim the costs. Saggezza has been supported by Sunderland City Council, as it has added to its team.
Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Saggezza is a fantastic business, and one that has really prospered in Sunderland.
“We are delighted that there is further growth ahead for the business, creating more jobs and bringing more wealth to the city’s economy. The rapid growth seen has been very impressive, and we hope it shows other businesses in this field that we have the right environment and people to drive businesses forward.”
Source: http://www.makeitsunderland.com/news
Posted in: Digital and Tech, General