An American fintech firm is investing over £2m here with the creation of 20 new jobs paying around £55k on average.
SpiderRock Technology Solutions is adding an engineering development team to its Belfast offices, located in Donegall Square East.
The company works with hedge funds, banks and other trading firms around the world, supplying them with “high-performance, cloud-based trading systems and low-latency market data solutions”.
The jobs will be hybrid, meaning that they are open to applicants based across Northern Ireland.
Economic development agency Invest NI and the Department for the Economy were involved in securing the investment, including during Economy Minister Conor Murphy’s trip to America in 2024.
Mr Murphy said: “This investment by such a prestigious company is testament to the international stature of the North’s thriving fintech sector.”
“Invest NI and I met SpiderRock’s leadership team in Chicago last year to discuss the benefits of investing in the north.
“I’m delighted the company has now decided to create 20 new positions offering average salaries of £55,000, almost double the private sector median.
“The hybrid nature of the roles mean they will be accessible to people right across the region.”
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George Papa, CEO of SpiderRock, said: “We have been incredibly impressed with the talent and expertise available in Northern Ireland, as well as the strong partnerships with universities and support from Invest NI.
“Our Northern Ireland team will play a critical role in supporting our trading platform, extending operational coverage during non-US hours, and enabling our expansion into European markets.
“Recruitment efforts are progressing rapidly, and we’re thrilled to have already filled almost half of the planned roles.
“This investment marks a significant milestone for SpiderRock as we grow our presence in Europe, build our brand, and deliver innovative solutions to new markets.”
Andrea Haughian, Invest NI’s head of Americas, said: “Securing this investment for Northern Ireland is a testament to the hard work of our local investment manager and the collaborative efforts of our in-market team in the US.
“SpiderRock’s decision to establish operations in Northern Ireland highlights the region’s growing reputation as a fintech hub, offering a skilled workforce and a competitive business environment.
“The new team will play a pivotal role in advancing SpiderRock’s global strategy and we look forward to supporting SpiderRock as it grows its operations here.”
The announcement is likely to be one of the last made by Mr Murphy in his current role, as he seeks election to Seanad Éireann.
He has been nominated for the industrial and commercial panel, and will go before the electorate of current and TDs, current members of the Seanad and members of city and county councils.
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