A business man who launched his own company in 2004 after struggling to find employment is now hoping to give back to those struggling post COVID-19.
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Tamar Valley spirits producer Strait Brands is looking to fill a range of positions as it moves to put international expansions plans into action.
Managing director Philip Ridyard said up to 40 full-time, part-time and casual jobs will be created within the next 18 months.
Mr Ridyard, who has been running the business from lockdown in the UK since mid-March, said numerous jobs would be created at the company's York Town site, north of Beaconsfield.
The business is working to meet new a range of new sales contracts in Australia and overseas, all secured during the pandemic.
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Mr Ridyard said Strait Brands had been expecting an influx of investor funds in early February, but the proponents are, like Mr Ridyard, marooned overseas unable to fly back into Australia.
"The funding for completion of stage one is secured and that will take us to 800 and then 3800 bottles of vodka and gin per hour within six months of commissioning," Mr Ridyard said.
"We have additional investors waiting for on-site presentations prior to launching stages two and three of our multi-million dollar expansion project that will accommodate new products, made from Tasmanian-grown ingredients, in a diverse portfolio for international markets."
More than 27,000 Tasmanians have lost their jobs with the unemployment rate estimated to be 12 per cent due to the coronavirus.
Prospective employees are encouraged to contact the business directly, with roles in production, packaging, fruit processing, procurement, administration, logistics, warehousing, cellar door and sales available.
Mr Ridyard, who returned to North Wales to handle family matters following the death of his mother, said he understood the challenges facing those who found themselves without work - often through no fault of their own.
"This is a business, originally founded in 2004, because I had been out of work for 18 months and, despite 400 applications, couldn't get an interview, never mind a job," he said.
"I understand the pain and uncertainty that goes with unemployment, the effect on families and relationships and the mental anguish involved in losing a job.
"And then, especially in the current COVID-19 climate, of seeking work when it seems thousands of others in Tasmania are doing the same.
"Every email will be acknowledged and everyone contacted personally."
Applicants should contact the business at HR@straitbrands.com with a resume detailing skills and experience. More information can also be found at facebook.com/straitvodka.