The company plans to create 100 new jobs

Aesica to create 100 new jobs at its Queenborough site

Sheppey is set to receive a boost after pharmaceutical manufacturer Aesica today announced plans to create up to 100 new jobs.

The news comes days after wind turbine giant Vestas pulled out of plans to build a factory in Sheerness - killing off hopes of creating 2,000 jobs.

Aesica is planning to expand its Queenborough facility between now and 2015 and will begin a recruitment drive in the next couple of months.

The company will host an open day on July 5 where it will unveil more about its plans to local dignitaries, schools and organisations.

Jobseekers who are interested in a career in pharmaceuticals can drop in to speak to Aesica staff about career opportunities.

As part of its workforce expansion, Aesica is also looking for talented students and candidates with a manufacturing background who are keen to pursue a career or apprenticeship in the pharmaceutical industry.

The company will fill 50 of the 100 posts in the run up to expansion and will hire a further 50 when it is completed.

Simon Clough, managing director, Aesica Formulated Products, said: “This is an exciting time for Aesica and the local community. Not only are we growing as a business, we’re also creating up to 100 new jobs which is a fantastic boost for the region’s economy.

“As a long-standing local employer with plans to grow globally, we’re also looking to bring young apprentices on board, which we believe will not only strengthen the business but also reaffirm our commitment to youth employment in the Isle of Sheppey and Kent.

“This open day is an ideal opportunity to involve the local community in our plans and what they will mean to this area; for potential employees to find out about the opportunities on offer; and to raise awareness amongst students about the prospect of a stimulating career in the pharmaceutical industry with Aesica.”

The expansion plans follow the opening of the £3million potent manufacturing facility last year, which has extended the company’s capabilities in manufacturing and packaging medication.

MP Gordon Henderson said: “I am delighted to hear that Aesica is investing yet further in its Queenborough facility and creating much-needed new jobs in the process. This is a major boost for the area and backs up the company’s commitment to the facility.”

Mayor of Swale, Cllr Pat Sandle, said: “Since acquiring the site, Aesica has constantly looked to invest and this latest announcement that it is expanding and creating jobs is excellent news. The company is a major regional employer and as the area’s local council, we will do everything we can to support it during this latest phase of expansion.”

To find out more about the recruitment drive visit www.aesica-pharma.co.uk/openday/