IBM aims to create create 1800 jobs in France during the next two years, in leading-edge areas like AI, blockchain, cloud computing and IoT. This is coupled with a major expansion in France of training programs for "new collar" skills. IBM had previously announced plans to hire 400 to work in AI in France, so this is an additional 1400 positions.
The investment in new jobs and training was announced by IBM's Chairman, President and CEO Ginni Rometty, in conjunction with the Tech for Good Summit, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron (pictured) in Paris.
"President Macron is making a big bet, and a smart one, that AI is going to transform every job, every profession and every industry," said Rometty. "At IBM, we share this belief and see evidence of it every day with Watson driving exponential impact here in France and around the world. That is why we are bringing 1,800 new jobs to France to meet growing demand for AI from our clients."
IBM plans to hire business consultants, IT architects, developers and technical experts, including both new graduates and experienced professionals. The 1800 new jobs include 400 AI-related roles IBM announced in March at the French AI for Humanity summit. With this new hiring, IBM aims to strengthen its national presence by creating local competitiveness hubs with key local public and private partners, as already started in Lille and Strasbourg.
"We are dedicated to building advanced capabilities alongside our clients in the communities where they operate," said Nicolas Sekkaki, general manager of IBM France. "IBM will continue to work with the government to make sure France has the skilled workforce necessary to take advantage of this unique era."
