The newly named Tioxide, in Greatham, is now owned by the LB Group, which bought it in April after the previous owners, Venator, went into administration.
The plant, which produces titanium dioxide pigment (TiO2), is now looking for a further 60 workers after already recruiting its first batch of 70.
A spokesperson said: “Since its establishment in April, Tioxide has recruited more than 60 employees in just 12 weeks, filling the majority of the 70 positions announced following LB Group’s acquisition of the Greatham site and its associated TiO2 pigment assets. The appointments, spanning finance, business services and operations, have increased the company’s current workforce to more than 200 employees.”
The company’s recruitment has so far focused on production, engineering and technical specialists who will support activities across both the black end and finishing plant. It has also expanded teams at its research and development centre in Wynyard and its head office in Stockton-on-Tees.
Building on this progress, Tioxide has now launched the second phase of its recruitment programme as the plant moves towards full production capability. Around 60 additional roles will be created as the company prepares to bring its second line into operation, taking the total number of positions announced since April to 130.
Managing Director Karen Askwith said: “The response to our recruitment campaign has been extremely encouraging and reflects the confidence people have in the long-term future of Tioxide.
We have been particularly pleased to see experienced people, who previously worked at our locations, choosing to join us, bringing invaluable operational knowledge and expertise. Alongside these individuals, we are attracting other talented new recruits whose skills, energy and fresh perspectives will play an important role in shaping the next chapter of our business.”
She continued: “Restarting a manufacturing operation of this scale is a major undertaking, and we are continuing to make excellent progress. As we move through the commissioning phase, our focus remains on achieving a safe and successful restart. Subject to the successful completion of key commissioning milestones, we expect single-stream production to resume in August.”
Ms Askwith added: “Bringing TiO2 pigment manufacturing back to Teesside is incredibly important for our business and for the region. We are proud to be creating high-quality jobs and supporting the local economy and are looking forward to supplying premium products to customers around the world.”
