Modular homes manufacturer creates 150 new jobs at first factory in Harrogate

ilke Homes, a modular homes business specialising in off-site manufacturing techniques, is creating 150 new jobs at its first factory in Harrogate.

The new hires will support the business’ plans to deliver up to 2,000 modular homes a year.

With operations due to commence at the new 25,000 m2 factory in March, the jobs will initially consist of 100 people in the manufacturing and supply chain team, supported by a team of designers, engineers and other professionals.

The manufacturing team is expected to grow to around 300 over the next 12 months. The new team will create high-specification modular homes using the latest precision manufacturing processes to ensure durable, high-quality homes every time.

From the new manufacturing base in Harrogate, ilke Homes will transport the finished homes to sites across the UK.

ilke Homes, which began trading independently in October, is looking to fill a host of roles covering manufacture, design, engineering, other support functions.

Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “Britain has a proud heritage in high quality manufacturing and through our Industrial Strategy the government has outlined a vision that will build on our strengths in manufacturing and help shape an environment that enables businesses to thrive.

“Ilke Homes’ new factory in Harrogate will use innovative off-site manufacturing to build modular affordable homes, creating high quality jobs and contributing to the Industrial Strategy’s bold plan of action when it comes to infrastructure and housing.

“This includes an investment of £866m through the Housing Infrastructure Fund into local projects that will get 200,000 houses off the ground.”

Björn Conway, CEO of ilke Homes, added: “We’re pleased to be able to create high quality jobs in Yorkshire, including a new type of manufacturing role for the local construction industry.

“Our culture at ilke Homes will be very collaborative – the design engineering team will be hands on, working with the manufacturing team in the factory to solve issues and deliver a product that is not only truly cost effective, but also meets the needs of modern living.

“We’re passionate about having a diverse team at ilke Homes and will offer flexible working arrangements to suit all our employees, whether that’s to fit around the school run or just to maintain a great work - life balance. I’m looking forward to meeting and getting to know our new team members.”

The business’ recruitment team will be actively sourcing candidates from a range of backgrounds in addition to working with organisations such as Women in Engineering to focus on the underrepresented groups within the sectors they cover.

Helen Charlesworth, HR manager at ilke Homes, commented: “This isn’t your typical construction job so we’re accepting applicants from a variety of career paths – in fact only 30% of applicants so far have come from a property background.

“The roles provide a chance for people to try a new career, gaining new experience and skills. The key element for us is a shared passion and ethos in what we’re looking to achieve with ilke Homes.”

ilke Homes, in partnership with housing associations, developers and registered providers will deliver homes with flexible layouts comprising over 100 possible variations.

The homes are mortgageable and tenure blind, being fully adaptable to both private market and housing association requirements for all forms of sale and rent.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →