Unisys steps up hiring plans in India

Unisys Corporation, the $5 billion IT services major, has announced plans to step up its recruitment in India. The company and its four partners in India expect to employ around 2,000 staff and undertake more than 100 global engagements by the end of 2005.

To meet client demand, in the following two to three years the Indian employee base is expected to double again, Unisys chairman Lawrence A Weinbach said in Bangalore on Monday. The company expects to have 4,500 professionals in its Indian operations by 2008 along with its partners.

"Unisys has sourced globally for more than 25 years. Out current expansion in India is an extension of that strategy and is integral to growing our global capabilities. We are already performing services for global clients in the financial services, public sector, transportation, telecom, media and commercial industries," he added.

In April 2004, Unisys had announced its intention to invest $180 million in India over the next few years. Based upon its current staffing projections, Unisys initial investment will be exceeded over time.

Unisys currently works with Caritor, NIIT, Hexaware and Tata Infotech as its vendors in India and roughly half of the projected 4,500 workforce will be from Unisys.

According to Unisys, software development will make up around 40 per cent of the work and call centre will account for 30 per cent. Infrastructure management services will occupy around 10 per cent and work for insurance companies and payment processing will involve the rest.

Added Weinbach: "Unisys has a history of providing solutions to clients such as SBI and Air India. We are building on our experience to position India as a key source for services and support."