Allianz sets up software center in Technopark

THIRUVANTHAPURAM: Allianz Cornhill, part of the Allianz Group, has announced its decision to set up its Indian offshore development center in Trivandrum. The financial major’s software development center will be located in Technopark. To make this a legal entity, the company has registered the center as Allianz Cornhill Information Services Pvt. Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary in India. It informed that the company would invest close to half a million pounds in the Indian center.

John Knowles, Chief Information Officer, Allianz Cornhill Insurance Plc, said: "We are coming to Technopark to build a software development center as an extension of our in-house facilities in the UK. During 2003 we will establish a core team and prove the concept by working on selected business systems. From that base we will expand in response to continuing growth in the U.K. and so as to maximize the opportunities the center will offer."

Rajiv Vasudevan, CEO Technopark, said, "We are delighted to have Allianz Cornhill set up operations in Technopark. Allianz Cornhill has a century old tradition of excellence. After Ernst & Young Middle East, the decision by this blue chip transnational organization will provide a further fillip to our efforts to reposition Kerala as a leading contender for IT investment in India. Technopark’s status as India’s best value environment for knowledge industry is now increasingly seen as being confirmed by industry. We welcome Allianz Cornhill and wish them all the very best in their future endeavors in India. We assure our fullest support to enable their successful growth."