TORONTO, June 29, 2022

Avanade, the leading Microsoft solutions provider, has expanded its presence into Atlantic Canada with the launch of the company’s fourth North American engineering hub, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Canada is already home to two Avanade engineering hubs, in Toronto and Vancouver.

Following an agreement with Nova Scotia Business Inc. (NSBI), Avanade aims to recruit 300+ professionals, both entry- and senior-level, over the next two years to help businesses in the region and across North America take advantage of new and emerging technologies. Additional locations are expected to be announced in the coming months.

“We have a bold plan for economic growth in Nova Scotia that includes a thriving ICT sector – and industry leaders like Avanade help make that possible,” said Honourable Susan Corkum-Greek, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Economic Development. “Nova Scotia’s tech sector is rapidly growing, and we are excited for Avanade to expand to our province as they bring opportunities that will see more Nova Scotians advance their careers here and ultimately, be part of our success story.”

Avanade chose Halifax after commissioning a comprehensive assessment study from Everest Group. The city ranked high in a variety of categories including availability of experienced and skilled talent; an employable graduate pool in IT and engineering; top educational institutes; government support and quality of life.

“Launching Avanade’s engineering hub in Halifax was a natural fit,” said André Nadeau, President and General Manager for Avanade Canada. “The abundance of experienced tech talent, coupled with the city’s leading academic institutions influenced our decision to expand here and become a member of this vibrant business community.”

“In addition to dealing with the ongoing pandemic-related challenges, CIOs continue to navigate how to transform their businesses and strengthen operational resilience to create agile and adaptable organizations,” added Mr. Nadeau. “Our engineering hubs are designed to bring a full suite of Avanade’s capabilities together to deliver specific digital solutions to address our clients’ most pressing priorities.”

“We are delighted to be working with Avanade as its growth will create employment opportunities for young graduates and help Nova Scotia attract and retain new talent from across the country,” said Laurel Broten, President and CEO, Nova Scotia Business Inc. (NSBI) “As a result of Avanade’s commitment to flexible and remote work, employment opportunities will not be limited to urban downtowns. Recent graduates, seasoned veterans, and incoming global talent can choose the best balance of professional aspirations and living the enviable quality of life found throughout Nova Scotia.”

To create new and innovative solutions, and to service its growing North American client base, Avanade is recruiting across a number of skilled positions including, data engineers, full-stack web developers, back-end developers, native mobile developers, QA automation specialists, scrum masters and product owners.

"This is an exciting opportunity for tech specialists to help build something new,” said Shawn Simmons, who leads Avanade’s North America Engineering Hubs. “Anyone who joins the team now can help shape the vision and mission. We offer the opportunity to experience a start-up work culture but with the backing of a large global company – in a very dynamic and attractive city.”

As an expert in employee experience and work-life balance, the flexible workplace culture is a fundamental element of Avanade’s DNA, predating the pandemic. A physical office space in downtown Halifax can accommodate employees and clients, plus remote work or hybrid schedules are also an option. Currently, Avanade offers an Alternative Work Week program globally that has been embraced companywide.

Other benefits of working at Avanade include the company’s emphasis on health and wellness, inclusion and diversity, philanthropy, and education and training.

As part of its long-term investment and commitment in the local community, Avanade has partnered with Saint Mary’s University and will establish a STEM mentorship/sponsorship program. Avanade will also be collaborating with Digital Nova Scotia and is embedded in the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship mentorship program.

Avanade has over 800 employees in Canada, across several locations including: Toronto (HQ), Ottawa, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver and its new engineering hub in Halifax.