Mullingar, Co. Westmeath – 12 July 2021: The Ardonagh Group, (“Ardonagh”, “The Group”) a top 20 global insurance broker and the UK’s largest independent insurance broker, has announced it will open the Ardonagh Global Data and Risk Management Centre this month, bringing 60 new highly-skilled, data science and analysis roles to Mullingar.
The Data and Risk Management Centre will deliver data-driven insights to Ardonagh’s clients worldwide, helping its 7,000+ colleagues offer tailored solutions from over 100 offices globally by providing a highly diversified range of financial services-related products and services across the full value chain.
This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.
Minister of State at the Department of Trade Enterprise & Employment Robert Troy TD said: “I am delighted that The Ardonagh Group has chosen to establish its new facility in Mullingar, creating 60 highly skilled jobs in the areas of data science and analysis. I am particularly pleased to see a focus on retaining talent in the region, and by working with the Athlone Institute of Technology, graduates will have greater options to live and work in the Midlands. While we have had a difficult 18 months, today’s significant announcement is a testament to the quality of talent and opportunities for companies investing in the Midlands. It is a positive endorsement for Mullingar and a real sign that brighter days are ahead. The Midlands is not only a great place to live, but also an excellent location for businesses to establish and thrive. I wish the Ardonagh Group every success in their expansion into Westmeath."
Minister of State Department of Finance with responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance Sean Fleming TD said: “I wish to welcome The Ardonagh Group to Ireland, a decision that increases our attractiveness as a destination for investment by companies operating within the Financial Services space. The decision to locate in Mullingar is further evidence of the benefits of choosing to establish facilities in regional locations. I would like to welcome The Ardonagh Group to Mullingar and I look forward to working with them over the coming years.”
Ardonagh’s world-leading Global Data and Risk Management Centre will drive innovation in the global financial services market and make the Westmeath area one of the key Risk R&D regions in Europe.
Conor Brennan, CEO of Ardonagh owned Arachas, created the initial concept and was the key driver behind the initiative. Conor, together with Ardonagh Group CEO, David Ross, and IDA Ireland, brought the concept of the Centre to life.
Ardonagh considered many locations worldwide but was impressed with the exceptional calibre and quality of Ardonagh’s existing teams in the region. The Westmeath area also stood out for the quality of life the Midlands area offers and the talent of potential employees locally. Ardonagh intends to work closely with the Athlone Institute of Technology to offer its graduates world-class career opportunities on their doorstep. The Centre will be led by Shane Keating, recently appointed as its Chief Data Officer.
David Ross, CEO of The Ardonagh Group, said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of the Ardonagh Global Data and Risk Management Centre and am particularly pleased it will be located in what is such a special place for me. Having grown up in this area I am deeply aware of the quality of the talent pool in the Midlands and I believe this initiative will make it one of the key areas globally for research into risk. The Group’s broad understanding of our clients and their businesses is our key differentiator, and this Data and Risk Management Centre will help us design bespoke solutions that really answer their needs.”
IDA Ireland CEO Martin Shanahan said: “The Ardonagh Group’s decision to establish its Global Data and Risk Management Centre in Mullingar demonstrates the company’s confidence in the highly skilled and talented workforce available in the Midlands. Winning jobs and investment in regional locations is a key pillar of IDA Ireland’s strategy Driving Recovery and Sustainable Growth 2021 - 2024 and today’s announcement by The Ardonagh Group demonstrates the agency’s continued commitment to that pillar. I wish the team at Ardonagh every success with this expansion.”