Digital consultancy Monstarlab unveils 100-job North East move

A global digital consultancy has revealed plans to create up to 100 North East jobs.

Monstarlab is opening an office in Newcastle.

Bosses say they want staff across service and user experience design, technology, and digital strategy and delivery roles, adding they aim to assemble their regional cohort by 2024.

The firm will be based on Newcastle’s Grey Street, with its office complementing an existing London hub and sites across 17 countries.

Monstarlab’s arrival was helped by more than £680,000 support from the North of Tyne Inward Investment Fund, while Invest Newcastle, part of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, introduced the business to local networks and funding streams.

Officials say it was also attracted by access to graduates from the region’s universities, the Newcastle Helix-based National Innovation Centre for Ageing and National Innovation Centre for Data, and client access.

Jennifer Hartley, director of Invest Newcastle, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “This investment into the city is testament to the strength of our tech ecosystem and world-class talent.

“Monstarlab’s commitment to supporting our region and boosting our thriving tech scene will further strengthen this key sector and our local economy.”

James Hall, Monstarlab UK’s executive director, will lead the new office.

He said: “We are very excited to become part of Newcastle’s tech community and would like to thank Invest Newcastle for their support.

“This is a great chance to join an ambitious and diverse team, have an impact on a growing business, and deliver industry-leading work – all while working in an exciting and flexible environment.”

Councillor Joyce McCarty, cabinet member for inclusive economy at Newcastle City Council, said the Monstarlab’s arrival represents another coup.

She said: “We are delighted a global brand like Monstarlab has chosen our city to set up their northern UK base and will be joining our vibrant tech scene, which continues to grow and thrive.

“Monstarlab’s commitment to supporting the region and the creation of up to 100 highly skilled jobs is exciting and will support the further growth of the region’s digital economy.”

Jamie Driscoll, North of Tyne Mayor, added: “This shows Newcastle, and the North of Tyne, can compete with anybody on the global stage.

“Monstarlab could have gone anywhere but they chose to come here.

“We have all the ingredients needed to attract investors from around the world – vibrant communities, beautiful countryside and coastline, growing high-tech industry and highly skilled, hard-working people.

“When we work together, we can be winners.”