FORTH has taken a major step towards opening its first European headquarters.
The business, which is setting up operations in Malta, is now in the process of creating shortlist for the position of MD after receiving a strong batch of CVs.
The crucial first appointment will pave the way for further recruitment, with the company also in conversation with a number of potential clients on the continent.
Forth Group Managing Director, Mark Telford, said interest in the role had come from “high-quality candidates” with strong technical and leadership experience.
Speaking from the island’s capital of Valetta, whilst on a fact-finding trip in August, he said: “We’re moving the Malta project forward at speed and have now reached a point where we’re seriously considering applicants for the MD role,” he said.
“It’s a big moment for us. The right person will lead our European growth – and help us build something special from the ground up.”
Forth revealed in March that Malta would become the location for its first overseas base.
The move is seen as a springboard for future growth, providing the company with a foothold in mainland Europe while creating new opportunities to collaborate with engineering and manufacturing partners across the Mediterranean.
The business, which specialises in solving complex engineering challenges in the nuclear, renewables, defence, and infrastructure sectors said the new base would act as both a gateway and a launchpad.
“Malta might be small – but it punches well above its weight,” added Mark. “It’s forward-thinking, strategically placed, and shares many of our values when it comes to innovation and getting things done.”
The recruitment update follows a series of significant developments closer to home.
Earlier this year, Forth completed the acquisition of respected Cumbria-based precision engineering business HallPack – a move designed to grow capacity and bring new specialist skills into the group.
HallPack’s team has since been relocated to Forth’s Maryport base as part of an investment programme that will triple the firm’s production capability and create new jobs.
Meanwhile, Forth recently unveiled a new £250,000 state-of-the-art machine shop at its Maryport headquarters during a well-attended open day.
The facility showcases the company’s ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology, training, and skills development in the UK.
Mark added: “While we’re expanding into Europe, we’re also investing heavily here at home – in people, equipment, and long-term partnerships. There’s huge demand for what we do, and we’re building a platform that can deliver both here in the UK and overseas.”
