US software firm creating 109 jobs in Belfast

A US software company is creating 109 jobs in Belfast.

Kana Software Inc is investing £7m to open a development, consulting services and technical support unit. Invest NI is contributing £981,000 towards the project.

The US firm makes software that helps large companies communicate with their customers. The software is used by call centres and e-commerce websites.

It is owned by Accel-KKR, a California venture capital company.

Kana Software acquired local firm Lagan Technologies in November 2010 and said it will continue to trade as part of the Kana organisation. Both companies will be based in the existing Lagan Technologies site.

Kana Software's clients include Adidas, Nike and Ebay.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said the company's decision to establish itself here showed once again that "Northern Ireland is the location of choice for an international company seeking a cost competitive environment and a skilled workforce".

"Having evaluated other options including India, China, the Philippines and Eastern Europe, Kana Software recognised the value of our skills base, strong cultural links with the US and the support offered by Invest Northern Ireland," she said.

Mark Duffell, chief executive officer of Kana Software, said: "We are delighted to be making this significant investment in Belfast, which becomes Kana's leading international development hub, serving the needs of our global client base.

"The new unit in Belfast will also help us to target the European market and will become the focal point for the development, deployment and support of current and new technology, creating global opportunities for our business and our employees."