Proofpoint jobs announcement ‘a vote of confidence in Cork’

Proofpoint has announced plans to create 250 jobs in Cork in a move that has been described as providing “a significant boost for the region”.

The cybersecurity and compliance company is to expand its global presence with a new Leeside office which will serve as Proofpoint’s international hub.

The company said that more than 250 jobs will be created as a result of the development in the next two years “with plans for ongoing, active recruitment and continued investment in the region”.

Proofpoint chief financial officer Rémi Thomas said that the company’s expansion into Ireland is critical to its international growth and its ability to protect European organisations.

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke described the creation of more than 250 jobs in the coming years as “a significant boost for the region”.

“We look forward to seeing Proofpoint thrive and contribute to Ireland’s dynamic tech ecosystem,” he said.

CEO of Cork Chamber Conor Healy said that Proofpoint is a “great addition to the thriving cybersecurity cluster” in Cork.

With global headquarters in Sunnyvale in California, and offices worldwide, Proofpoint helps companies around the world stop targeted threats, safeguard their data, and make their users more resilient against cyberattacks.

“Proofpoint’s growing European headquarters in Cork will be home to a number of key business functions, including engineering, research and development, customer support, finance, and marketing,” said Mr Healy.

“Cork is already well-established as a great place to live, work, and do business in, and offers an exceptional talent pool for innovative firms like Proofpoint.

“[The] announcement serves to further strengthen Cork’s rich offering as a location for cutting-edge businesses to grow and flourish.”

Sinn Féin TD for Cork South-Central Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire described the company’s expansion decision as “a vote of confidence in the city” and said that Cork could be the fastest-growing city in Ireland, but that more needs to be delivered in terms of infrastructure to achieve the city’s full potential.

“[Although] business leaders and political representatives can see the potential Cork has, and clearly that includes Proofpoint, a great deal is needed to build momentum further, to sustain the growth in Cork and build on it,” he said.

This was echoed by Sinn Féin TD for Cork North-Central, Thomas Gould, who said while he welcomed the news, it also highlighted the need to consolidate and strengthen Cork’s economy by prioritising housing, further investment in ending dereliction and vacancy, and increasing infrastructure through reliable public transport.

“I am delighted that Proofpoint has made this commitment to our wonderful city,” said Mr Gould.

“Today’s good news underlines just how much potential there is in Cork’s economy and just how important regional counterbalancing is,” he said.

“We have a skilled and well-trained workforce who are determined and diligent.

“It is time for a government that unlocks their potential. People want to live and work in Cork, companies want to invest in Cork, and we need to make sure that we are giving them the best possible chance at success.”

Cork North-Central People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Mick Barry said that while it is good to hear news of 250 new jobs for Cork, “for-profit housing and childcare isn’t going to provide the services a growing city needs”.

“The city clearly needs public investment in public service infrastructure on a scale not seen before,” he told The Echo.

IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said Proofpoint’s choice to select Cork for its new international hub emphasises the critical importance of regional investment and showcases the South-West’s established cybersecurity cluster and available talent.