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Graduates making a mark at First Derivatives

17th September 2013

Newry financial markets firm First Derivatives said it is experiencing the highest employment growth since it was established 15 years ago.

The company, which is listed on the AIM, said it wanted to hear from Northern Ireland’s “top graduates” as it continues to grow.

Chief operating officer Adrian Toner said 114 out of 359 new positions announced in March had already been filled by 81 graduates and 33 others.

Mr Toner said: “Our business is almost 100% export-based and this is clear evidence of what companies on this island have to offer world markets.

“Our doors are open for the brightest and best graduates, who can avail of the opportunity to work for an Irish firm based in the world’s most exciting markets, instead of being forced to emigrate.”

He added: “Our pool of recruits includes top tier graduates from maths, computing, law, finance, engineering and marketing and I would urge any recent or upcoming graduate with an interest in working abroad for an Irish firm to explore our opportunities.”

The company, which was established by Newry man Brian Conlon and is still based in the city, offers software and consulting services to hedge funds and financial institutions in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia and further afield.

Revenues at First Derivatives rose by 44% to nearly £37m in the 12 months to February 2011.

Pre-tax profits were up by 15.1% to £6.5m compared with £5.6m in 2010.

Mr Conlon won the title of Ernst -amp; Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Ireland last year but in June this year lost out on the title of World Entrepreneur of the Year to Olivia Lum of Hyflux.

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