Expansion of software firm GFI MAX to create 40 jobs
Dundee has been given a major jobs boost after a leading software firm announced it is to double in size over the next few months.
The Vision building, where GFI MAX is based.
- By Stefan Morkis
- Published in the Courier : 08.12.10
- Published online : 08.12.10 @ 04.27pm
GFI MAX, which provides IT software for small- to medium-sized businesses, employs around 40 staff and will hire nearly 40 more in the coming weeks.
The company has just moved to new premises at the Vision building at Seabraes.
Founded as HoundDog Technology seven years ago, the company was bought by GFI in July last year and re-branded as GFI MAX.
GFI general manager Dr Alistair Forbes said, "We have ambitious plans for this business. In the last year in particular we have invested heavily to put us in a strong position and we have seen a very quick return on that investment.
"These plans continue with new offices and bringing more high quality jobs to the city, in software development, operational and customer support, sales and worldwide marketing roles."
Dr Forbes added that the knowledge base the company could draw on in Dundee helped convince them to invest in the city.
He said, "There's a great talent pool in the city, fed by two high quality universities, and we are in a great position to tap into this.
"This past year has seen a substantial growth for the company in terms of customer numbers and revenues, as well as adding new features to the MAX product range.
"The year ahead looks even more exciting as we expand and invest in Dundee."
Business' 'buzz'
This year GFI MAX won the software vendor of the year award at the CRN Industry Awards ahead of companies such as IBM and Microsoft.
Dr Forbes said, "We are in a good market that is growing fast and we have a great product that customers love.
"We are growing fast and can also offer fantastic career prospects and the buzz that comes from being part of a growing global software business."
Marketing director Bob Lawson said, "All the jobs that will be based in Dundee are high quality jobs, not call centre positions, like programmers and in marketing and sales."
Dundee's games and software sector has endured a tough 2010 with the collapse of the city's biggest firm, Realtime Worlds, in August. More than 200 people lost their jobs as a result of the firm going into liquidation after the failure of its most recent game, APB.
However, the year has ended on a high with city firm TAG Games securing the coveted Doctor Who licence to produce apps for iPhones and iPads as well as the GFI MAX announcement.
Alan Mitchell, chief executive of Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, said, "It is great news and it demonstrates that the digital media and technology sector has a long-term and prosperous future ahead of it. We have got fantastic skills, the universities and there is a great sector building up.
"This really confirms that the industry can look forward to a prosperous future."
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