UK contract pharmaceutical manufacturer Aesica welcomed 400 potential employees through its doors at its recent open day as it prepares for significant expansion at its plant in Queenborough, Kent, UK.
The firm previously announced that it was creating up to 100 new jobs, positions that will be filled during a phased recruitment drive, which will begin in the next couple of months.
As part of its workforce expansion, Aesica invited interested jobseekers to find out more about the roles being created and hear from senior executives about what the company has to offer.
One of the jobseekers was unemployed former steel worker Mick Gisby from the Minster area of the Isle of Sheppey.
He said: 'I have been out of work since January so attending this open day has really felt like a positive step. I am very optimistic based on what I’ve heard from the company. I feel like things are starting to come together for me.'
Pupils from the Isle of Sheppey Academy also attended the open day for a behind the scenes look at what a career in the pharmaceutical industry entails.
Aesica is looking to fill 50 of the 100 jobs in the run up to the expansion, with the additional 50 following once the expansion is complete.
Simon Clough, md of Aesica Formulated Products, said: 'As a long-standing local employer with plans to grow globally, we’re also looking to bring young apprentices on board, which we believe will not only strengthen the business but also reaffirm our commitment to youth employment on the Isle of Sheppey and Kent.'
The expansion plans follow the opening of Aesica’s £3m potent manufacturing facility last year, which has significantly extended the company’s capabilities in manufacturing and packaging medication.