Tag: HQ

Ekco launches new Dublin HQ

Ekco, one of Europe’s leading security-first managed service providers, today announces the opening of its new headquarters, featuring a state-of-the-art Security Operations Centre (SOC), in Dublin’s Grand Canal Dock. The opening comes as Ekco is targeting revenues exceeding €100 million in Ireland and €200 million globally by year-end 2025. Together, the new HQ and SOC will enable Ekco to accelerate its growth in Ireland, boost cyber resilience for businesses, and deliver an enhanced offering to customers.

This is Ekco’s third global SOC and builds on the success of its existing cybersecurity facilities in the UK and Malaysia. It will help to meet growing customer demand for advanced cybersecurity products and services. The SOC will combine advanced threat detection capabilities with Ekco’s expert analysts to identify and respond to threats quickly, and protect businesses from evolving cyber risks. It will also support compliance and enable businesses to align with regulatory requirements, while safeguarding personal and company information.

The SOC can automatically take action when serious threats are detected, including isolating affected devices without the need for manual intervention, helping to ensure faster protection. Ekco’s incident response team has also grown in order to respond to security incidents more effectively, with responses to potential threats increasing by more than 200% over the past six months.

Following a number of strategic acquisitions in Ireland – amounting to seven in the last two years – the new HQ will provide a central hub for Ekco’s approximately 500 employees in Ireland. It will contribute to enhanced collaboration between teams to facilitate more comprehensive customer solutions, while also streamlining processes and service delivery.

In addition, the new HQ provides boosted capacity and will enable the company to expand its customer base in Ireland, with plans to increase the number of customers by 15% in 2026. This will include growth in the public, finance, legal, and professional services sectors. Ekco is also on a path of aggressive global growth and is continuing to expand in key international markets including the UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the U.S.

Steve MacNicholas, CEO Ireland, Ekco, said: “The opening of our new Dublin headquarters signifies our commitment to safeguarding businesses and driving consistent growth for Ekco in Ireland. We are on an exciting acquisition path, supplemented by planned organic growth, and this new hub will provide a central location for employees to collaborate. Furthermore, as our team continues to grow internationally, this state-of-the-art facility cements our commitment to Ireland as a leader in cybersecurity.

“The launch of our third SOC represents a significant step for our business as we look to meet the ever-increasing demand for future-ready cybersecurity services. This will enable us to deliver an enhanced service to our customers, ultimately helping businesses to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats, and provide our solutions to an increased client base.”

Make a Quantum Leap in Computational Capabilities

The world of computing is advancing at an extraordinary pace, and businesses everywhere are working to keep up. While quantum computing (QC) is on track to revolutionize technology, it isn’t poised to replace classical computing just yet. Instead, a Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing (HQCC) approach, where quantum processors complement classical computers to tackle the most complex challenges, seems to be the way forward.

John Roese, Global CTO & Chief AI Officer – Dell Technologies tells us more 

According to IDC, the global quantum computing market is projected to reach $8.9 billion by 2028, highlighting the increasing demand for quantum-enhanced solutions. But what does this mean for businesses today, and how can they begin leveraging this emerging synergy?

Quantum Computing: The Promise Is Real but So Are the Challenges

Quantum computing isn’t just about scientific theory anymore. It’s already being tested and applied in some of the most demanding industries. Its unparalleled ability to evaluate multiple possibilities simultaneously makes it an ideal choice for specific domains – from accelerating drug discovery to enabling faster financial risk modelling. What makes it powerful is its ability to consider many possibilities at once, making it ideal for problems that involve many variables and outcomes.

But today’s quantum machines are still in their early stages of development, characterized by limited qubit counts and relatively low fidelity rates. Systems will require significant improvement to achieve practical applications. Additionally, the control mechanisms required to implement instructions are prone to errors due to the intricate interplay of quantum phenomena, making it challenging to maintain coherence and accuracy. The complexity of quantum algorithms and the need for extensive error correction tools, make it challenging to scale up qubit counts and improve overall computational power.

Moreover, the quantum computers’ limited capabilities in solving optimization problems and machine learning tasks, which are critical applications in many fields, highlight the pressing need for HQCC approaches that can leverage the strengths of both paradigms. By combining the power of quantum processors with the stability and reliability of classical systems, HQCC offers the best of both worlds.

Preparing for Quantum: How Businesses Can Start Today

It’s important to understand that HQCC isn’t an alternative to current HPC operations, but an enhancement. Despite its potential, HQCC comes with some critical hurdles that need to be addressed, such as software interoperability, shortage of talent and evolving hardware advancements. Keeping that in mind, businesses that start exploring hybrid solutions now will be better positioned as quantum capabilities advance.

Here’s a simple three-step approach to get started:

  1. Discover:Begin with learning and experimentation. Quantum computing is an emerging field, so the first stage of preparing your business is to do some foundational research. Once you’re ready to experiment, consider using emulation for developing, porting and optimizing code for quantum computing on a classical infrastructure, avoiding major upfront costs.
  1. Identify:Not every problem is suited to quantum. You wouldn’t want to use it to do any kind of calculation that has one exact answer. For example, you shouldn’t use it to calculate your tax bill or process your payroll. On the other hand, it can be very good at solving optimization problems. The key is to look for situations that are difficult to model because of a large number of variables. You also want use cases that are intrinsic to your business, where improving operations would have a large impact on your bottom line.
  1. Deploy:Enable frictionless deployment into production and real business benefits. HQCC offers a flexible approach to deploying quantum computing solutions into production. By combining classical processing with the power of quantum computing, Hybrid Quantum-Classical Systems (HQCS) enable developers to create and test quantum algorithms in a familiar classical environment before deploying them on expensive quantum hardware. That means you can achieve frictionless deployment into production, accelerating your entry into the quantum computing era while minimizing the risks of adopting a new technology.

The Intersection of HQCC & AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing are increasingly converging. As AI models become more complex and classical systems begin to hit performance and energy limits, the potential for hybrid technologies like HQCC, which combines the capabilities of both AI and quantum is immense.

AI enhances quantum computing by:

  • Optimizing workloads: AI can intelligently allocate tasks between classical and quantum processors.
  • Improving algorithm efficiency: AI can refine quantum algorithms to run more efficiently on quantum hardware.
  • Accelerating development: AI enables progress in quantum computing without relying on dedicated quantum hardware.

In turn, HQCC can advance AI itself by:

  • Providing unparalleled compute power: Quantum computers can handle complex computations that classical systems struggle with, enabling AI models to scale in domains such as material science and drug discovery.
  • Offering increased energy efficiency: By leveraging both classical and quantum processing, HQCC can deliver improved energy efficiency for AI tasks.

This two-way relationship creates a synergy between AI and quantum computing, boosting the performance of each field and opening new possibilities across industries as they continue to mature.

Looking Ahead: A Smart Step Towards the Future

The hybrid computing era is not just about technology – it’s about transformation. Imagine a world where problems that used to take years to solve are now tackled in days or even hours. With the seamless integration of HQCC, this vision is quickly becoming reality. For forward-thinking enterprises, implementing hybrid solutions is the path to unlocking long-term growth, efficiency, and innovation.

LinkedIn Opens New Dublin Campus

LinkedIn has officially opened its new campus at 4 Wilton Park, consolidating its Dublin operations into a modern, sustainable hub. This brings together LinkedIn’s teams under one roof across 4 and 5 Wilton Park, with a combined footprint of 290,000 sq ft — making Dublin home to LinkedIn’s largest office outside of the United States.
The new campus is designed to support LinkedIn’s evolving ways of working and foster collaboration among its 2,000+ employees in Ireland, who represent 60% of LinkedIn’s EMEA workforce and over 70 nationalities.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD said:
“I’m delighted to open LinkedIn’s new office at 4 Wilton Park. This expanded EMEA HQ — LinkedIn’s largest office outside the US — is a strong endorsement of Ireland as a destination for global investment. Over the past 15 years, LinkedIn Ireland has grown significantly, now employing over 2,000 people. This is a testament to Ireland’s talented workforce and tech expertise.”
Building on this, LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky added: “When we decided to put our EMEA headquarters in Dublin back in 2010, we started with three employees, and now we’re more than 2,000 strong. None of this would be possible without the support of the Irish government and the wider community. We’re excited to continue shaping a brighter future of work together.”
Sustainability is at the core of the campus, which has been designed to operate at net-zero carbon, and is in the process of achieving LEED Platinum and WELL Platinum certifications — among the highest global standards for environmental performance and employee wellbeing. The site features hydroponic gardens producing over 90kg of fresh ingredients per month, rooftop beehives, and a focus on locally sourced food. The project utilised responsibly sourced materials, such as those with recycled content, take-back programs, and bio-based materials.
Another key feature of the campus is the new LinkedIn Dublin Community Space, a free venue for local nonprofits to host events that help connect underserved communities to economic opportunity. Since launching in the previous building, the Community Space has hosted nearly 200 events for more than 300 organisations in the past year alone, welcoming over 10,000 attendees, with LinkedIn employees also volunteering their time and expertise to support these initiatives.
Sue Duke, Head of LinkedIn Ireland, commented: “The opening of 4 Wilton Park, and the significant investment behind it, highlights the pivotal role our office plays in LinkedIn’s global growth. Our team in Dublin is central to delivering LinkedIn’s vision of creating economic opportunity for everyone, whether that’s developing AI tools to better connect jobseekers and employers or working with policymakers on future skills. “
James Geoghegan TD for Dublin Bay South (Fine Gael) also welcomed the opening, adding:
“As a local representative, I welcome LinkedIn’s continued investment in Dublin with the opening of its new offices—now home to over 2,000 employees from 70 nationalities. LinkedIn’s remarkable 15-year journey in our city reflects not only its global success but also its deep commitment to supporting our local community and economy.”

US based Utility Innovation Group establishes European HQ in Dublin following acquisition of Irish energy advisory firm

Utility Innovation Group (UIG), a leading US-based provider of advanced energy solutions, has today announced the strategic acquisition of Enicity, a leading advisory firm specialising in the application of innovative energy technologies in modern power systems based in Ireland. Following the minority investment by Gothenburg, Sweden based Volvo Penta in April, the acquisition will see UIG establish a formal European headquarters in Dublin as it positions itself for accelerated expansion into the wider European energy market.

The global journey towards decarbonisation is presenting new and complex challenges for electric utilities and Large Energy Users (LEUs), including data centres, in all major economies. As people strive to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to cleaner more diverse energy sources, electric utilities and operators are under increasing pressure to optimise their infrastructure and integrate renewable energy into their grids all while ensuring reliable power supply which minimises environmental impact.

Founded by utility veteran Alan McHugh, Enicity has established itself as an influential player across the European energy sector, known for its partnership approach and commitment to smart and sustainable energy solutions for utilities and LEUs. By incorporating Enicity’s regulatory experience, utility facing capability, and established network, UIG further compliments its wealth of system integration expertise as they deploy their battery energy storage, distributed generation, and GridSure controls platform within the European market. Alan McHugh, will continue onwards as Managing Director of Europe for UIG. The acquisition aligns with UIG’s mission to revolutionise the global energy landscape and underscores its commitment to influencing the growth of decentralized and advanced utility systems worldwide.

Derek Tugwell, President, UIG, added: “Acquiring Enicity represents a major milestone in our expansion strategy. The European energy market offers tremendous potential for growth, and with Enicity’s impressive track record and partnership approach, we are well-positioned to make a substantial impact. EU markets are already facing complex challenges in terms of adapting power and grid infrastructure to a new electric landscape, and we have shown that our expertise and solutions platform provides a new means to overcome these challenges.”

Alan McHugh, Managing Director, Enicity said: “We are delighted to become part of the Utility Innovation Group family. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter, as we combine our expertise with UIG’s vast resources, solutions platform, and global reach. Together, we are poised to bring unparalleled innovation to the European energy market and drive the adoption of sustainable energy solutions at scale.”

Cryptocurrency platform Gemini Chooses Dublin as its European HQ

Cryptocurrency platform Gemini has announced Dublin as the location for its European headquarters. Gemini launched its platform in Ireland and eleven other European markets in the fourth quarter of last year.

Gemini’s positive view of the Irish regulatory landscape, coupled with the capital’s deep talent base in technology and innovation, and thriving startup scene were cited as key reasons in selecting the Irish capital for its European HQ.

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD said: ‘’Congratulations to Gemini for becoming the first firm registered by the Central Bank of Ireland as a Virtual Asset Service Provider. This is significant for Ireland as the Government focuses on innovation as a driver of growth. Gemini’s decision to locate in Ireland highlights our competitive offering for the international financial services sector.  We take pride in how it has grown from 60 staff in Dublin 30 years ago, to approximately 56,000 people around the country working in finance today. I wish Gemini every success as they build their team in Ireland.’’

Gillian Lynch, Head of Ireland and Europe at Gemini said: “As we continue to expand our global footprint, we’re excited to tap into the talent and innovation that Dublin and the Irish market have to offer. Dublin has long been a hub for innovation and technology, with a thriving startup scene and deep talent pool. We continue to be encouraged by the city’s commitment to fostering innovation, by a policy environment which encourages entrepreneurship.”

Tyler Winklevoss, CEO of Gemini and Cameron Winklevoss, President of Gemini said:

“We’re grateful for the support of the Irish government and the IDA as we embark on the next, exciting steps in our journey. We look forward to being a part of and adding to the vibrant tech community in Dublin. Crypto is as transformative as the Internet, and we are committed to unlocking the opportunities it represents,” they said.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: ‘’Gemini’s decision to establish its European HQ and be registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) is a significant development in an emerging and rapidly growing sector of the financial services industry. This investment will act as a strong reference case in seeking to further develop the digital assets sector. I wish Gemini every success.’’

In July of last year, the crypto platform became the first company to be registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI). In February 2022 Gemini obtained Electronic Money Institution (EMI) authorisation from the CBI.