DELOITTE has completed its acquisition of Belfast IT company Etain to create what it has called Northern Ireland’s largest AI and data practice.
Some 70 staff have now been absorbed into the global consultancy firm, working from Deloitte’s Belfast Technology Studio in the Gasworks.
The group said the deal, which was first announced last month, doubles the headcount of its AI and data practice.
Deloitte said it now employs more than 1,000 people from its Belfast-based operation.
Anne-Marie Malley, managing partner for consulting at Deloitte, said the acquisition expands the range of expertise within the group.
“Organisations across the UK rely on technology to build resilience, improve productivity and engage clients and colleagues in new, transformative ways,” she said.
“In many cases, bespoke software solutions are key to achieving these objectives.”
Etain’s co-founder Martin Goss, who has now taken on the role of director in Deloitte’s consulting practice, said: “Since first launching Etain in 1999, we’ve watched Belfast’s reputation for creating world-class business software soar and have benefitted considerably by growing our team with the incredible technology talent drawn to the city.
"Joining Deloitte and working alongside some of the country’s leading technology experts will ensure that our footprint in the UK’s digital sector continues to grow and that the solutions we are creating continue to set the gold-standard for software innovation.”
