Tanaiste announces 200 New Jobs for UnitedHealth Group in Letterkenny

There were clear parameters for us in expanding our operations and we did indeed look at other sites around the world.  However, the Letterkenny facility stood out for us. Their unquestionable ability to succeed each and every day, along with their strategic location and passionate workforce made our decision very easy.  We also had an excellent working relationship with the IDA which has facilitated our expansion in Donegal and I would like to thank the organisation for that - US Vice-President of Operations, Jim Becker

Donegal, Tánaiste and Minister for Education Mary Coughlan TD today (July 15th 2010) announced that US health insurer UnitedHealth Group is to expand its operation in Letterkenny with the creation of 200 new jobs. The announcement is supported by the Irish Government with the aid of IDA.

The Minneapolis-based health insurer currently employs 340 people in IT and medical claims processing at its Letterkenny site, and this latest investment is expected to further embed jobs into the future. The 200 new positions will be split evenly between IT technicians and medical claims associates.

Commenting at the announcement, Tánaiste and Minister for Education, Mary Coughlan TD said, ‘Today’s announcement by UnitedHealth is a remarkable boost to one of Donegal’s most valuable employers. This expansion by one of the world’s leading health insurers is significant to the financial services sector in Ireland.’

‘UnitedHealth’s’ decision to expand in Ireland comes about as a direct result of the availability of highly-skilled staff in the region, the performance and tenure of existing staff and also the geographic location of the Letterkenny site – it’s time zone lends itself to the 24/7 support needed for the US and Indian markets. On behalf of the Irish Government I look forward to providing continued support to UnitedHealth as its Irish operation grows and develops.’

‘Having strong telecom connectivity has been an important aspect of securing this investment. The development of the Metropolitan Areas Networks and the recent addition of the direct international connectivity provided by Project Kelvin are instrumental in supporting employment intensive investment in the Border region.’

US Vice-President of Operations, Jim Becker, described today’s events as, “a proud day” for the UnitedHealth Group.  “We are delighted to be in Letterkenny and to share in the success of Pádraig Monaghan, our MD here, and his team. There were clear parameters for us in expanding our operations and we did indeed look at other sites around the world.  However, the Letterkenny facility stood out for us. Their unquestionable ability to succeed each and every day, along with their strategic location and passionate workforce made our decision very easy.  We also had an excellent working relationship with the IDA which has facilitated our expansion in Donegal and I would like to thank the organisation for that.”

Managing Director of UnitedHealth, Pádraig Monaghan paid tribute to his loyal staff stating, “We are very fortunate to have staff who possess such a steely and determined work ethic.  Today’s announcement is testament to their hard work over the past 11 years.  We have a proven track record in maintaining high standards within all our divisions and we are very proud to be able to increase the capacity of the company given the current economic challenges.  This is also a great day for Letterkenny and the broader business community who will benefit indirectly from this announcement.”
 
IDA CEO Barry O’Leary said,“United Health is a Fortune 100 company and has operations in 63 locations worldwide.  The jobs announced today in IT and medical claims processing will be undertaken for clients in the United States, the Middle-East, Europe and Asia. Services Innovation is an important area of focus for IDA and an important part of IDA’s strategy. IDA Ireland looks forward to supporting UnitedHealth as it continues to grow its operations in Ireland.’

Recruitment for the 200 jobs has now begun and it is expected that all positions will be filled by the end of 2011.

For further information please contact:
Joanne Sweeney-Burke
Media Box
Tel: 0035374 9168478 / 0035387 6237373
joanne@mediabox.ie

Tyler Mason
UnitedHealth Group
Tel: (312) 424 6913
tyler.mason@uch.com

IDA Ireland
Thomas McEvoy, Press and PR Manager,  Mob: 087 7426684
Antoinette Tyrrell, Press Officer, Mob: 0877572053 Tel: 087 7572053

Department of Education
Sean Perry, Press Advisor to the Tánaiste, Mob: 0879105013