Digital content distributor and security firm, Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD.S), is opening its second global headquarters in Phoenix.
This strategic decision brings several key business functions to the North American market and positions the company to capitalize on growth initiatives,while showcasing the high-quality innovation and engineering of its Swiss teams.
The Kudelski Group’s technologies are used in a wide range of services and applications requiring access control and rights management. Its three main activity sectors include digital television, cyber security solutions and public access solutions.
The Group will retain its corporate headquarters in Cheseaux-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland, which will also continue to serve as the company’s center of excellence for security technology research, development and innovation.
“Over the last 65 years, the Kudelski Group has been consistent in its commitment to take the steps necessary to position itself at the forefront of technology and maintain control over its own destiny,” said André Kudelski, Chairman and CEO. “Opening a second Kudelski Group headquarters in Phoenix will provide the Group with better access to the world’s largest market and will enable us to serve more effectively our existing and future customer base in the Americas.”
The Phoenix facility will also act as the headquarters for the Kudelski Group’s cybersecurity business, Kudelski Security, which is led by renowned technology CEO and Arizona resident, Rich A. Fennessy. Kudelski Security is a thought leader in cybersecurity in Europe and plans to officially launch its North American business in August of this year.
The Group’s new Phoenix site will initially occupy 30,000 square-feet at 40th Street and Camelback Rpad, with future plans to expand. Over the long term, the Kudelski Group plans to hire 200 to 350 high wage positions in the region, with a focus on driving sustainable growth and developing corporate support functions. The Group currently employs more than 3,500 people globally.
Greater Phoenix’s business-friendly environment, proximity to other technology hubs, developed infrastructure and access to highly skilled professionals were key factors that influenced the Group’s decision to locate its second global headquarters in the area.
“Since its creation in 1951, the Kudelski Group has been a thought pioneer, and in the 21st century, Arizona is the place of choice for digital-age pioneers,” added André Kudelski.
The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) worked together with SelectUSA, a department under the U.S. Department of Commerce created to showcase the United States as the world’s premier business location and to provide easy access to federal-level programs and services related to business investment, the Arizona Commerce Authority and the City of Phoenix to attract the Kudelski Group to the region.
“The Kudelski Group’s investment in Arizona is further evidence that we are transforming and creating a business environment in this state where companies want to move, expand and thrive,” Governor Doug Ducey said. “A decision like this – to create a headquarters location and hundreds of high wage jobs – signals to businesses everywhere that Arizona offers the perfect platform for growth and success. I am confident that the Kudelski Group will excel here and I thank them for their commitment to our state.”
The growing presence of innovative and tech-based companies in the Greater Phoenix region cannot be underscored,” said Chris Camacho, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. “The region’s large, skilled workforce and supportive business community make an attractive place for businesses to operate. I want to thank Governor Ducey, our partners at SelectUSA, the Arizona Commerce Authority and the city of Phoenix for their coordination in making this a reality; and I welcome the Kudelski Group to Greater Phoenix and look forward to their growth.”
“Following a lengthy selection process, I am thrilled to welcome the Kudelski Group to Arizona’s dynamic and growing technology ecosystem,” said Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “The Kudelski Group’s commitment to Arizona signifies that our state is a true competitor on a global scale. The creation of a 2nd headquarters location in Phoenix is an excellent win for Arizona that will create hundreds of high-wage jobs and significant investment in our community. This project was a true collaborative effort and I’d like to thank our partners for helping bring the Kudelski Group to Arizona.”
“This is a multinational company choosing to create a US headquarters in Phoenix, which just shows how important it is for companies to connect with a community,” said Mayor Greg Stanton. “The Kudelski Group and Greater Phoenix made a connection that will create incredible opportunities for our skilled workforce. But just as importantly, their employees relocating from Switzerland will find a welcoming home here with new friends eager to help them make an impact in our community.”
“I am pleased that the Kudelski Group has decided to expand their investment in the United States. Congratulations to the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and the Arizona Commerce Authority on their work to bring these jobs to the region,” said Vinai Thummalapally, executive director of SelectUSA. “The United States is home to more foreign direct investment than any other country because of our market size, business climate, and workforce. We’re excited to welcome companies like the Kudelski Group that help drive economic growth, innovation and job creation.”
