Smithers Group will relocate its North American Information business unit from Portland, Maine, to Akron, Ohio, and as a result will move more than 20 jobs to Ohio over the next year.
In phase one, a dozen positions will move as part of Smithers' two-phase strategic growth initiative. Ten more jobs will move to Akron later next year as part of phase two.
“Moving a growing business is challenging, but we have worked hard to ensure our clients will experience a seamless transition” said Rav Lally, president of the Smithers Information business.
The two sites will overlap during the transition period, as the Portland office will remain open through the end of June 2015. Smithers said it has offered all 12 Portland-based employees the opportunity to relocate.
“The staff in Akron is expected to be a combination of existing and new employees,” Lally said. “Our recruiting in Akron has begun, and we plan to fill the open positions starting in January and as soon as qualified candidates are identified.”
Smithers, a global testing, consulting and information services business, employs 110 in the Akron area. The company specializes in polymer and tire technology and life sciences from its Akron headquarters.
“Having this team co-located with our technical experts and scientists in northeast Ohio allows the team to work closely on new product and service offerings,” said Michael Hochschwender, Smithers Group CEO and president.
The Smithers Information business produces market reports, conferences and publications, providing clients with an independent global source of market, technical and business information. The Information group also provides services to companies and industries with new and emerging technologies.