Newcastle-based tech consultancy Opencast marked its 10th year in business with the completion of a move to a new HQ, as well as opening three new national hubs this month.
The company is also setting its sights on rapid headcount expansion, aiming to nearly double its headcount to around 500 by the end of the year.
The consultancy is opening three new hubs in Leeds, London and Edinburgh this month, all located in buildings operated by Spaces, while moving its headquarters to new a hybrid space in Hoults Yard, Byker.
Opencast was founded in 2012 by Mike O’Brien and Charlie Hoult, who remain co-chairs of the company. Its new HQ focuses on improved technology, sustainability, flexible desk and room booking, and hybrid team facilitation.
Mike O’Brien, Co-founder, said: “Charlie and I started the Opencast business in 2012 with a mission to challenge the traditional consulting model by putting people at the heart of all our thinking.
“From start-up through to today’s rapid growth, we have lived and breathed that mission. We’re confident that the plans we have in place put us in a good position for the decade ahead of us.”
The company, which has around its staff based outside of the North East, currently has a headcount of more than 260, and by the end of 2022 says it wants to reach nearly 500 in response to demand from government and business.
Leeds-based developer Luka Abeywickrama said: “It’s great to see Opencast emerging out of the pandemic cocoon with new hubs propagated across the country. What a fantastic way to celebrate 10 years. Having Leeds on the OC map is a treat, and I look forward to checking out the local hub.”
