Aberdeen-based oil service company Sparrows said yesterday it wanted to take on a further 65 people after it increased annual turnover and profits.
The firm, which provides offshore crane and lifting services, launched a recruitment drive earlier this year to fill nearly 150 new positions but now needs to grow its workforce even more to meet anticipated future demand.
Sparrows reported turnover increased by £22.5million to £172million in 2011, while operating profits of £10.6million in the latest period were up from £5.9million the previous year.
Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation this time were £17.5million, an increase of almost £3million on 2010. Sparrows said most of the 65 new jobs would be in the north-east, where it employs more than 1,100 people out of a 1,600-plus global workforce.
Chief executive Doug Sedge said: “These results reflect the success of our restructuring and the investment in our people, premises and processes. They are also testament to the hard work and dedication of our skilled teams around the world and our ability to deliver safety, quality and value.
“Our domestic market remained strong and stable but international operations delivered 35% growth, with significant growth in the US.
“We remain committed to the North Sea and Aberdeen but will continue to pursue significant global opportunities, particularly in Brazil, the US, west Africa and the Middle East. The challenges facing our economy and our industry in 2009-10 are now behind us and we are well positioned to capitalise on the global demand for our services.”
Earlier this year, the company said it was seeking fresh investment to fuel future growth and had taken on professional service firm Ernst and Young as adviser.
Mr Sedge said at the time he was relaxed about the potential for a new owner for Sparrows, which is currently owned by its directors and Close Brothers Private Equity.