Moray plans to harness opportunities in the energy sector this month as a business and recruitment fair is held in Elgin for local companies and individuals.

National and local businesses, including the Global Energy Group, Subsea 7, DECOM North Sea and Petrofac will be at the 'Make it Moray' event to explore how ambitious businesses and local workers can find ways to service the energy sector and its related industries.

The free supply chain and recruitment fair is open to all, and is being organised by North Scotland Industries Group (NSIG), funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), and with support from the government bodies which make up the Partnership Action for Continuing Employment, PACE.

'Make it Moray' will incorporate exhibition stands, advice sessions from key industry and employment specialists, and speed networking sessions with employers keen to speak to those looking for a career change. It will be held in the Laichmoray Hotel in Elgin on Thursday, March 10 between 1pm and 9pm.

David Reid, Head of Businesses of Growth for the Moray Business Unit of HIE said: "We aim to provide information on the opportunities for business development and in some instances, diversification within the emerging renewable energy sector.

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"Moray already has a sophisticated manufacturing and production base which services Oil and Gas amongst other key industries. These skills and disciplines are indeed transferable and could put Moray in a favourable position to take advantage of these developments

"We are offering businesses of all sizes the chance to look at how they can diversify to supply this market.

"We also know that an increasing number of personnel and contractors in Moray are facing change in light of the decision at RAF Kinloss. As well as the opportunities in the manufacturing and service industries, there will be advice on areas like business start up, retraining and making new career choices."

NSIG, with a membership of commercial businesses and organisations, promotes available skills, services, and facilities to the energy markets in the UK and overseas.

NSIG chief executive Ian Couper said: "We view this as a very important event for our members and others in Moray, to be able to promote the excellent range of services available in the area and to learn from major businesses and energy industries about what their supply chain requirements might be.

"At a time of great concern for industry in Moray it is important that we look to maximise opportunities for the future. NSIG is already involved in addressing skills issues and in promoting the services of members in general, but Moray at this time requires special attention and together with HIE in Moray we will seek to develop plans to follow on from the event."

Skills Development Scotland is one of the bodies which form part of the PACE partnership. With Jobcentre Plus, the Highland Employers Coalition, Moray College, and Business Gateway there are a range of initiatives being introduced to reduce the impact on Moray of the Strategic Defence and Security Review.

Anthony Standing, of SDS, said: "This event will help to stimulate new horizons for skilled people who are looking to diversify their careers as RAF Kinloss winds down. Where there are challenges there are opportunities. Through initiatives such as the Moray Job Club and the Make it Moray, PACE partners are creating an environment where these opportunities can be identified and grasped."

(GK)