MiWay CEO René Otto is himself a former resident of the city, and as such says he takes great pleasure in playing a role in its economy. “When we looked at the next location to grow our business, it was obvious that a real opportunity was presented in central South Africa.” he says.

Globally, contact centres have provided opportunities for the creation of employment in remote areas, given their ability to deliver service regardless of location. That’s something which Otto says MiWay took into account in identifying the placement of its next facility.

“As such, rather than adding to the existing offices in Gauteng, MiWay wanted to grow capability elsewhere in the country,” Otto says. “We’re tapping into the often underestimated talent and skills of people living in the Free State; they don’t need to ‘semigrate’ to Gauteng to enjoy these opportunities.”

Furthermore, Otto says the regional strengths of Bloemfontein will feed into the company’s national network. He explains how: “This contact centre will specialise in the Afrikaans market, servicing these clients in a language most comfortable for them – again, supporting our promise at MiWay to do things our customer’s way.”

Initially, the contact centre will create jobs for some 60 people; Otto confirms that on its present growth trajectory, it is likely that this number will increase in the near future. “Plans are definitely in the works to expand this office as the business develops.”

At its Bloemfontein centre, Otto says a sound opportunity is created for the introduction of individuals who have completed Matric or some tertiary studies to the world of business, computers and telephony. “We will provide training and there is definite opportunity for career advancement for hard working, focused people,” he notes.

And as a former resident, Otto says he looks forward to rekindling and deepening his involvement with a city which holds personal significance for him.