Good News Friday: Alchemy Acquisition Marks Major Milestone for North West Economy
24 October 2025
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Alchemy Technology Services, founded and headquartered in Derry, has been acquired by global technology leader NTT DATA in a move that will accelerate international growth and establish a new Global Centre of Excellence in our city.
The acquisition marks a major step forward for both Alchemy and the wider North West region, positioning Derry as a global hub for innovation, AI, and digital transformation in regulated industries. The local team will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering large-scale transformation programmes for insurers worldwide, with Alchemy’s pioneering delivery and training model set to be rolled out across international markets.
NTT DATA is recognised as a global leader in AI, analytics, and automation, and its investment in Derry firmly places the city on the map as a Northern Ireland hub for AI-driven innovation, particularly in financial and insurance technology. This development highlights how the region’s digital expertise is converging with its growing clean energy and sustainability sectors, creating a powerful blueprint for future investment and regional growth.
This strategic acquisition strengthens Alchemy’s ability to scale, expand its global reach, and continue driving innovation in partnership with some of the world’s largest insurers. Building on its strong consultancy expertise and deep experience in complex, regulated environments, Alchemy’s capabilities will now be amplified through NTT DATA’s global network and investment.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:
“Ensuring greater prosperity across the region is a key priority for my Department. Attracting such a significant investor as NTT DATA to the North West is a major milestone for the region and our economy as a whole.
“Today’s acquisition announcement is a fantastic endorsement of Derry’s strong talent base, now showcasing on a global level, and reinforces the North West as a hub of innovation in Financial Services, a priority sector for future growth. I look forward to seeing Alchemy continue to grow with NTT DATA.”
John Harkin, Founder and CEO of Alchemy, said:
“This is a proud and exciting moment for our team, our clients, and the wider region. Becoming part of NTT DATA unlocks extraordinary opportunities, not just for international growth, but for expanding the reach and impact of the work we do.
“As someone deeply committed to the North West, I’m especially proud that this move allows us to reaffirm and strengthen our long-term commitment to the region.”
Bruno Abril, Chairman at Alchemy & Global Lead, Insurance Industry at NTT DATA Inc. said:
“Joining forces with Alchemy enhances our ability to accelerate digital transformation in the insurance industry, reinforcing our strategic growth ambitions and the vast opportunities we see ahead.
“This acquisition is a natural evolution of our shared vision, complementary capabilities and aligned values, empowering us to deliver smarter, scalable solutions that meet the evolving needs of insurers worldwide”.
The Derry office will now serve as one of NTT DATA’s Global Centres of Excellence, driving large-scale transformation projects and delivering specialist training for international teams. This designation underscores Alchemy’s expertise and the North West’s growing reputation as a centre for world-class digital delivery and innovation.
With this acquisition, Alchemy’s model and North West base are set to play a defining role in shaping the future of insurance and digital transformation globally, a powerful endorsement of the region’s exceptional talent, innovation, and ambition.
This is a transformative moment for the North West, signalling its emergence as a key player in the global AI and digital economy. By anchoring a Global Centre of Excellence in Derry, NTT DATA and Alchemy are not only showcasing our local capability on the world stage but also laying the foundations for further investment, job creation, and sustainable regional growth. The North West’s thriving digital and energy ecosystems continue to prove that this is a region where innovation happens — and where the future is being built.
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