Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is announcing a £350,000 funding package for international business outsourcing company Capita to train more than 140 new employees in Moray.

Capita, which employs 46,000 people worldwide, is growing its business at the Enterprise Park Forres. Following the acquisition of 'Vertex - Private Sector' the firm's future plans are set to double its Moray workforce over the next three years.

HIE is investing alongside the business in a £1 million project to develop customer service and specialist training.

David Oxley, HIE's area manager for Moray commented: "An investment of this size, by a major Global business, at a time when we are all working to diversify the Moray economy is very welcome. Capita has identified the potential of the region's workforce and we are delighted that our funding will support skills development.

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"HIE and its partners in Moray are focused on increasing the opportunities for existing businesses and those investing in the area. Global business Capita is the market leader in the UK and we look forward to working with this ambitious business as it grows its Moray service provision.

"A close working relationship between the private and public sector to develop outsourcing over the past 15 years has proved successful for the Highlands and Islands - for employers, for their clients, and for the ever-growing skilled workforce. The industry has enjoyed steady growth in the region since the early 1990s, and currently employs around 3,500 people."

In addition to the workforce training grant, the project is also opening up a second wing of the centre at Strathcona House.

Bruce MacLeod, managing director of Capita's customer management business, said: "Capita has a proud track record of innovation, investment and delivery. We are excited to be investing in Moray and welcome the opportunity to build close relationships with those, including HIE, who are active in developing economic prosperity for Scotland."

(GK)