KPMG launches technology innovation hub in Manchester

Business advisory firm KPMG has completed a major investment in Manchester after launching a national technology innovation hub in the city.

KPMG’s UK Solutions & Digital practice provides core technology and managed services to support the digital transformation of clients. It is able to deploy its experts to help solve specific client challenges in cloud computing, digital learning, responses to regulatory change, automation and the use of technology to improve performance across front, middle and back-office functions.

On 2 September 2019, around 100 specialist staff, including data scientists, designers, software engineers, project managers and analysts, will transfer from St Peter’s Square to Circle Square on Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor, in the heart of the city’s innovation district.

The new 12,000 sq ft space at the Manchester Technology Centre has the capacity to house more than 180 staff and has been designed around collaboration and development, with access to the local technology and university communities. KPMG now employs more than 1,000 staff in the city.

Nicola Quayle, Office Senior Partner at KPMG in Manchester, said: “Manchester is already home to one of our largest offices in the country and we’re committed to investing in the city. The decision to move to Circle Square also recognises Manchester’s status as a growing centre for the international tech economy. Quite simply, our Solutions & Digital practice needs great connections, access to incredible talent and to be plugged into a vibrant tech community. Manchester, and in particular Circle Square, offers all of this in abundance. We can’t wait to move in and make the most of this opportunity.”

Lisa Heneghan, Chief Digital Officer at KPMG, said: “We’ve created a modern, collaborative space where technologists will want to come and work, and where we can transform the way we deliver for our clients with technology. It’s all about providing the foundations for technology, development and innovation to flourish and complement the work of our colleagues right across KPMG as they help organisations through the technology revolution that is transforming the economy.”

Bradley Topps, Commercial Director at Bruntwood SciTech, said: “It is great to have KPMG on board at Circle Square; it’s the perfect new location for a business that uses innovative technology to continually improve the service it provides its international roster of clients.

“Manchester Technology Centre’s high-quality workspace and location at the heart of the city’s innovation district means it is the perfect environment for KPMG to grow its technology and software team. We look forward to developing a long-term partnership with KPMG in the years ahead.”

Matt Shufflebottom, Associate at Knight Frank, acted for KPMG on the transaction.