Cara Partners launches €6m upskilling programme to build leadership and technical capability in Cork

Cork-based pharmaceutical manufacturer Cara Partners, wholly owned by Germany's Schwabe Group, has announced a €6 million three-year training and development programme at its Little Island facility, targeting enhanced technical capability, operational efficiency, and leadership development across 130 employees. The initiative is directly relevant to HR and learning and development professionals overseeing large-scale workforce capability programmes in advanced manufacturing environments.

C103 reported that the programme, supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, will be delivered in collaboration with a range of academic and professional partners including the Irish Management Institute, IBEC Academy, University College Cork, Munster Technological University, Irish Manufacturing Research, Trinity College Dublin, and Skillnet.

Stephen Kenny, VP API Europe at Schwabe Group, said: "This programme will support higher productivity and operational efficiency as our site continues to expand." Kenny added that the initiative is focused on developing future leaders through structured leadership development, succession planning, and cross-training opportunities.

The programme will support enhanced multi-product and technical capability at the site while embedding sustainability and skills development throughout. A specific strand of the initiative addresses leadership and change management capacity to support continued growth at the Little Island facility, which has been in operation since 1978.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said: "Cara Partners' commitment to upskilling and leadership development strengthens the capability of its Cork site and underpins its future growth in the region." Lohan noted that IDA Ireland's strategy places a strong focus on human capital, ensuring companies can build resilience, enhance productivity, and support sustained regional growth.

Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke said investment in skills and leadership capability is essential to maintaining Ireland's competitiveness as a global location for advanced manufacturing.

View the full programme announcement and partnership details.