Jobs boost for two Cork firms
Hundreds of jobs are set to be created over the next couple of years by two organisations, it was announced this week.
75 new jobs are to be created by Cork firm Business Platforms as they announce what was described as a significant expansion with the company planning to double its workforce by 2028.
Headquartered in Penrose Dock, Business Platforms is a consulting firm specialising in manufacturing execution systems, serialization, supply chain operations, and digital transformation for the pharmaceutical industry. Co-founded in 2019 by Paul Browne, Phillip Doyle, and Liam O’Riordan, Business Platforms has established itself as a trusted partner for global pharmaceutical companies, delivering expert consulting services that drive efficiency, compliance, and innovation.
As part of this growth, Business Platforms has recently appointed Joe Lyons as general manager.
He said: “This announcement reflects the increasing demand for specialized consulting services in the pharmaceutical industry. We are proud to continue our commitment to excellence by growing our talented team, investing in cutting-edge learning and development initiatives, and expanding our service offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients.”
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin was present for the announcement: “Ireland’s pharmaceutical sector stands as a global leader, driving innovation, excellence, and economic growth. This announcement from Business Platforms is a testament to the strength of this industry and the world-class expertise we cultivate here in Cork. By creating 75 highly skilled jobs and expanding its consulting services, Business Platforms is strengthening the digital transformation of pharmaceutical manufacturing and reinforcing Ireland’s position at the cutting edge of the industry.”
Anne Lanigan, Divisional Manager within Enterprise Ireland for Technology and Services said: “Supporting Irish companies with the ambition to scale globally is a key priority for Enterprise Ireland and we look forward to working closely with Business Platforms to optimise their full international growth potential into the future.”
Meanwhile, Cork-based ifac is celebrating a golden milestone. The accounting, tax, and business advisory firms is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with ambitious plans for further expansion, including the creation of 400 new jobs over the next three years.
Ifac has four offices across Cork - Bandon, Blarney, Skibbereen, and Mallow. Alongside Peadar Murphy, the firm’s Founding Chair was dairy farmer Donal Cashman from Coole, White Cross. He was chairman from 1978 to 2006.
Commenting on the firm's ambitions for the future he said: “With a strong reputation built on trust, community commitment, and expert advice, ifac is not only reflecting on a proud history – it is investing boldly in the future and the communities where it operates.
“While the firm will continue to respect its heritage, it will continue to grow with Irish farmers and producers, alongside expanding into new markets. Its focus today is very much on continuous improvement, most recently marked by the launch of a new specialist team for mid to large SMEs.”