Australian-based IT&T service provider Data#3 Limited has hired up to 40 staff members formerly employed by embattled voice and data integrator, Commander Australia.

The recruitment process targeted key areas for Data #3 including the potential to enhance its business particularly outside Queensland, said John Grant, managing director, Data #3.

“In the first half we had recruited around 45 professionals to take our team to over 400”, said Grant. “In a market where great people make the difference, the opportunity presented by Commander’s decision was too attractive to let pass and we have been able to recruit over 40 additional quality people across the country into management, sales and key technical roles.”

"The new staff members have also had long term relationships with substantial customer organisations and we have an opportunity to accelerate market coverage and increase market share, an appropriate strategy should the market tighten” he added.

As a result, Grant indicated that its Licensing Solutions specialisation had expanded with new teams in Perth and Adelaide and additions to its existing teams in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to be the clear leader in this area nationally.

Grant also claimed that to support its expansion the company has opened two new offices in Adelaide and Perth, building on its current presence in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Townsville, Rockhampton, Gladstone and New Caledonia.

“The new offices will broaden the base for continued organic growth and allow us to better service our local and national customers,” said Grant.

The company reported an exceptional half year result with total revenue of $157.3 million, a 16 percent increase over the previous year. Data #3 also indicated it was well positioned to improve financial performance for the full year ahead of the record 2007 result and deliver dividends near the top of the sector.