The rise of Newcastle as a leading UK tech hub gets a significant boost this week, with news that global technology consultancy, Thoughtworks, is opening a new office in the city and creating 100 roles for senior tech professionals.

 

As a leading business that integrates strategy, design and software engineering to drive innovation, Thoughtworks’ decision to establish a presence in the North East represents a significant development for the region, which has one of the fastest growing tech hubs in the UK. Thoughtworks will be looking to make a tangible contribution to the region’s growth; in terms of attracting business, supporting innovation and investing in the sector’s broader social impact. A recent report by Tech Nation has ranked Newcastle the ninth most important tech hub in the UK, ahead of larger cities such as Leeds, Birmingham and Glasgow. 

 

Invest Newcastle, part of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, has been supporting Thoughtworks with its move to the North East. Invest Newcastle introduced Thoughtworks to funding streams and local networks, including North of Tyne’s Inward Investment Grant Fund which supports companies moving into the area. Thoughtworks has been awarded £691,482 from this fund that will support the creation of jobs that otherwise would not exist and the growth of the digital economy in Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Northumberland. 

 

The new Newcastle base for Thoughtworks will become a centralized operations hub for Thoughtworks UK, servicing national and international clients. The firm, which is headquartered in Chicago - and has offices in London and Manchester - employs more than 9,000 people across 48 offices in 17 countries. 

 

 

“We are delighted to be opening an office in Newcastle. Technology is about people - we are committed to attracting and investing in an exciting new team of Thoughtworkers in the region, continuing our work to ensure technology can enable a more inclusive, diverse and equitable society and to make a positive and lasting impact on the business community and society at large. This comes at an exciting time for Thoughtworks as we continue to build on our strategy, design, data and software engineering expertise to support our clients’ transformation ambitions”.

 

 

“Our digital and tech strengths continue to shine through. We couldn’t be prouder that a global company like Thoughtworks will be joining our tech community, creating 100 high value jobs and supporting us to make a lasting social and economic impact. This investment couldn’t come at a more opportune time, as we look to grow our economy through our strengths and create a better future for everyone who lives and works in our great city. As thought leaders in diversity and inclusion, they will be a real asset to the region as we all work together to create an inclusive economy that provides opportunity for all.” 

 

 

“This investment from Thoughtworks not only shows the strength of our tech sector but highlights the power of partnership working. Our tech eco system and networks like Dynamo that stimulate growth along with assets like North East Futures UTC and The National Innovation Centre of Data, who help support, grow and upskill future talent, played a crucial role in securing this investment.  

 

“This investment further cements our position as a leading tech hub, our ability to compete on a world stage and as a tech career destination. Their plans to diversify and grow align with Newcastle’s strengths, not only within the tech sector but across sectors such as renewable energy and life sciences, strategically important sectors right across the supply chain.  

 

“Thoughtworks are a great cultural fit with our city and our ambitions, and we are delighted that they will be joining our collaborative community of disruptive thinkers and innovators, investing in a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline, working together to make an extraordinary impact on the world. “

 

 

 

“Part of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Invest Newcastle’s mission is to help businesses locate, expand, and thrive in Newcastle and Gateshead. They champion the city on a national and international stage, working collaboratively to drive forward economic growth.”