Living and working in Cork

Whether it’s due to Brexit, Covid-19 or something else entirely, many of us may now be considering a change of scenery. For some, that might simply be a move to a bigger house with a garden, but for others it may be a shift to another country. With its riverside walks, bustling pub culture and Ireland’s position within the EU in a post-Brexit economy, there are plenty of reasons to consider the Emerald of Isle for your next home base. Here’s why Cork could be the perfect place to move to. 

Cork is a buzzing, thriving metropolis now, and is set to become even more high-flying in the future. In fact, it’s due to become the fastest growing city in Ireland over the next 20 years, which will bring with it a wealth of job opportunities to help support the booming city. There are strong international travel links and an entrepreneurial spirit, making it an appealing place to not only visit, but also do business. It also happens to be the most popular place for start-ups in Ireland and employs a young, ambitious workforce. Have we got you excited about starting a new adventure yet? 

Cork is home to more than 150 international companies, which employ 35,000 people and include brands such as Apple, Ely Lilly, Dell and Pfizer. Its life sciences sector is one of the jewels in its crown, with Cork boasting seven of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies in the world. Many of the world’s leading drugs are manufactured in the city, with the likes of Boston Scientific and Johnson & Johnson adding to the growing section of medical device and biopharma companies.  

In addition, Cork is also known as a technology hub within Ireland and wider Europe. Its ICT sector attracts business and professionals within software, analytics, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Apple and Dell both have setups here, while the data centre market is also growing thanks to the new 323,000 square foot T5 @Ireland data centre. For anyone working within ICT or life sciences, this is one of the places to be in Europe. 

The city is the place to be if you’re motivated by a good work-life balance because when you’re not hitting your career goals, you’ll find plenty to fill your days with. Cork has a reputation as the food capital of Ireland, boasting an abundance of charming pubs and sophisticated eateries alike. Its walkable city centre makes it easy to roam from café to restaurant to bar, stopping at independent boutiques and galleries on your way. 

There are many unique experiences to take over your weekends, from a visit to the Butter Museum to St Anne’s Church (where you can ring the bells!) and the Cork City Gaol. And if you venture beyond the city limits, you’ll find stunning landscapes and new nooks and crannies to explore. Take a day trip to the historic seaside town of Cobh, kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle or flex your golf skills at the beautiful Old Head Golf Links. County Cork spans verdant farmland, wild peninsulas and picturesque islands, and it could all be on your doorstep! 

If you’re considering a move to pastures greener, the Quanta team can help make it happen. With our Dublin office opening this year, we are well positioned to help you find your next job in Cork, whether that’s in ICT or life sciences. Contact us to see how we can help.