Kirby Group Engineering is increasing its workforce in South Africa with the opening of a second office in Cape Town. The Limerick-headquartered firm is creating 50 new positions, bringing the total number of people it employs in the country to more than 110.

The expansion reflects the success of Kirby’s operations in South Africa since the company established a presence there in 2023. Recruitment is open across a range of positions including Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers (LV/MV & HV), MEP Detailers, Commissioning Engineers and Structural Engineers.

Kirby, which was founded in 1964, now employs more than 1,900 people across Ireland, the UK, mainland Europe, the Nordics and South Africa.

Executive Chairman Jimmy Kirby said the latest expansion marks an important milestone for the company: “In our three years here, the Cape Town operation has gone from strength to strength. This decision to expand to the northern suburbs is a statement of confidence in the team we have built and the long-term opportunities we envisage for the area.

“Our new office will allow us to expand capacity while remaining within the same talent hub, ensuring consistency, collaboration and continued access to the city’s strong pool of skilled professionals.”

Kirby also works closely with third-level institutions in South Africa, including the University of Pretoria and University of Cape Town to support the next generation of engineering talent through sponsorship, scholarships and graduate development opportunities. Mr Kirby said the company is looking forward to further strengthening its presence:

“The success we have enjoyed in South Africa would not have been possible without the support of our employees and local stakeholders. We are also proud to play our part in the communities where we operate, ensuring our growth benefits not only our employees but also the wider community. We look forward to further strengthening those bonds in the years ahead.”

Picturede above: Doreen McKeown, Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Enterprise Ireland; Austin Gormley, Irish Ambassador to South Africa; Jimmy Kirby, Kirby Executive Chairman; Premier Alan Winde; Henry McCann, Kirby CEO; and Shamiela Solomons, Officer Manager / HR Lead, Kirby.

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