Gaming industry: Computer games company — and publisher of the Sims series — Electronic Arts is to create 200 new jobs when it opens a customer service and operations centre in Galway next year, reports the Irish Times. The new staff will provide support to EA's Bioware studio which is responsible for developing titles such as Mass Effect and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.
Charities: The biggest increase in job vacancies last month was in charities and the voluntary sector, reports Third Sector. According to figures from recruitment website Reed.co uk, the second biggest sector between April and May was marketing and public relations.
Retail: A rise in profits has led high-street fashion chain New Look to announce plans for 1,500 new jobs in the coming year, reports the Press Association. The company also announced that staff bonuses are secure this year and that it is also considering increasing pay.
Insurance: Insurance company Axa is to create 200 new jobs in Ireland over the next three years, reports the Irish Times. The new roles in marketing, finance, information technology, telephone sales, product development, customer services and policy administration will be based at subsidiary Axa Global Distributors in Dublin.
Health and social care: Palliative care and support service Greenwich and Bexley Cottage Hospice needs 30 volunteers to join two of its new projects, a befriending service and a telephone fundraising team. According to Community Newswire, the charity launched the recruitment drive as part of Volunteers' Week (June 1 to 7).
Training: Sunderland City Council is offering residents and employees in the area free IT training vouchers through the Microsoft Britain Works Challenge, reports Lynn News. Sunderland received £10m in vouchers after winning a national competition between local authorities. The scheme is designed to help people improve their digital skills to find work or further their careers.
