Further expansion at Ballymena-based Wrightbus has created an additional 46 new jobs across all areas of the business, including a new international role
Wrightbus says it is looking to a positive year ahead with the creation of more than 40 new jobs at its Ballymena headquarters. Having launched the world’s first zero-emission hydrogen double-decker bus in 2020, the manufacturer said it has created the roles in preparation for increasing production of the vehicle this year to assist global net zero ambitions and support the PM’s pledge for at least 4,000 new zero-emission buses to be produced during this parliament.
Wrightbus said that a recruitment drive will see it employ 46 new members of production and office staff, including coachbuilders, spray painters, welders, electrical engineers, technicians, accountants, sales staff and a project manager. Nineteen of the positions will be apprenticeships, giving a boost to opportunities for young people in the region. An international project engineer role has also been created as the firm looks to increase sales around the world.
With growing interest in its hydrogen double-deckers from UK cities and from around the world, Wrightbus Chairman Jo Bamford said the new jobs would allow production to keep up with demand.
“There’s no doubt that 2020 was a challenging year for everyone for many reasons,” he said. “We have made huge strides in 2020, despite the year being paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic, yet 2021 is going to be the year hydrogen really makes its mark.
“At Wrightbus we have already launched the world’s first zero-emission hydrogen double-decker bus and this year will see us deliver significant orders into London, Birmingham, Belfast and other cities across the UK, including in Northern Ireland.
“This recruitment will help us support the Government’s investment pledge for at least 4,000 zero-emission buses on the streets of the UK. It’s thanks to this and other orders already in the pipeline that we’ve been able to create these jobs. We’re proud to be supporting the local economy and creating opportunities for young people thanks to the apprenticeships we’ve been able to offer.
“We are proud to be playing a pivotal role in the world’s net zero ambitions and this green future – the vision we all have of a zero emission planet – will only be achieved if we all work together. Hydrogen’s time is now and Wrightbus is excited to be at the vanguard of this revolution.”
