Fujitsu to create new jobs in Inverness

Fujitsu provides IT support to Scottish companies and public bodies

IT company Fujitsu has announced that it will create 10 new posts at its main office in the Highlands.

The expansion in Inverness will allow the firm to provide remote support to customers across the UK and potentially elsewhere in Europe.

Fujitsu employs about 500 people in Scotland, with 150 of the staff working in the north.

The company's contract with Highland Council has caused a row over plans to remove computers from schools.

Fujitsu's other customers in Scotland include Scottish Water, Forestry Commission, the Post Office and Marks and Spencer.

In the Highlands, the company has offices in Inverness and Alness.

Its expansion has been welcomed by local MP and chief secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander.

Liberal Democrat MP Mr Alexander said the creation of new posts recognised the high quality of the workforce in the Highlands.

He said: "It is good to see new employment being brought to the Highlands and I welcome the news that Fujitsu are now able to expand their operations here."

Chris Garside, Fujitsu business unit director, said bosses were pleased to be announcing new jobs.

He said: "We want to be the first choice IT services provider in Scotland and this expansion during difficult economic times highlights our determination to achieve that aim.

"We are committed to being a significant employer in the Highland region."

Earlier this month, BBC Scotland reported concerns of parents and teaching union, the EIS, that schools could lose up to a quarter of their computers.

The worries followed the signing of a £70m IT contract between Highland Council and contractor Fujitsu.