Cybersecurity firm Proofpoint is set to expand its operations in Cork, Ireland, creating up to 100 new roles over the next two years as part of its AI Innovation Centre at One Albert Quay. The expansion is supported by IDA Ireland and positions Cork as a growing hub for cybersecurity and AI talent, further strengthening Ireland’s €1.2 billion InfoSec sector.

The new roles will include data scientists, AI specialists, and large language model experts, with an initial 45 specialist positions and the establishment of a security operations team. Additional hiring will focus on data security and other functions, reflecting Proofpoint’s aim to enhance AI-driven threat detection and automated protection for organisations globally.

Proofpoint is also expanding its Cork office space to accommodate the growing team. Chief Financial Officer Remi Thomas said, “Our ongoing investment in our Ireland-based business is critical to our international growth and to strengthening our ability to protect European organisations. Today’s cyber-attacks are growing in sophistication, and AI plays a critical role in an organisation’s defence.”

Kevin Leusing, Chief Technologist, EMEA, added that the AI Centre will integrate cutting-edge AI advancements with Proofpoint’s human-centric threat intelligence dataset, enabling models to continuously adapt to emerging threats. The hub will also focus on privacy-attested AI, ensuring data security and anonymity while powering next-generation cybersecurity tools.

Cork already hosts Proofpoint’s key functions, including engineering, R&D, customer support, finance, and marketing. The expansion follows similar moves by other tech firms, such as US cybersecurity company BlueVoyant, which established its European HQ in Cork earlier this year. Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Minister Peter Burke said the investment reflects Ireland’s ongoing success in attracting world-class international hubs.

Explore how Proofpoint’s AI Innovation Centre is creating jobs and shaping Cork’s cybersecurity landscape. Read the full article.