Ernst & Young plans to open an executive support center within its expanded and remodeled downtown operations complex in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The new center, part of the firm’s growing National Executive Assistance Team, will create 175 new jobs in the area with a focus on executive administrative support across the country. In addition to the 175 roles dedicated to NEAT, the firm plans to hire an additional 25 employees to support the firm’s risk services function for a total of 200 new hires between 2018 and 2021.

“The opening of our NEAT center as well as the renovation of our office space underscores our firm’s commitment to this market and to our people,” said Brian Rotolo, Louisiana Managing Partner, Ernst & Young LLP. “These investments will encourage our people to grow as professionals and to produce their best work, with innovation and teaming highlighted throughout. I am proud of the amazing team we’ve assembled here in New Orleans and of the exceptional service we provide to our clients, those in the city and beyond. We are dedicated to advancing the firm’s purpose of building a better working world.”

“Louisiana is proud to support the expansion of professional offices in our state, particularly jobs that are associated with one of the world’s leading professional services organizations,” said Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards. “The New Orleans Central Business District is well-suited to host executive-level offices, such as this one, with the full range of amenities, resources and workforce talent required by today’s leading organizations. This expansion is exciting news for Louisiana and demonstrates the corporate office and professional services strength that exists in New Orleans. We look forward to tremendous growth for EY in our state.”

“I’m proud to see a global powerhouse like EY investing in New Orleans this way,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “They are not just standing up a new professional service center, they are standing with the people of New Orleans by creating jobs and deepening their commitment to the City. With this investment, EY is tapping into the skilled workforce and the outstanding quality of life our City offers. and helping to move New Orleans forward.”

“We are pleased to work with EY as they continue to expand in the New Orleans market, providing even more professional opportunities for Greater New Orleans residents,” said Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. “The firm’s growth and commitment to the city is another example of the excellent environment that New Orleans provides for businesses including its skilled workforce, low operating costs, and outstanding quality of life.”

“We are delighted in EY’s continuing commitment to New Orleans. As part of a global professional services organization, EY’s choice of New Orleans is a vote of confidence in the city, specifically, our highly educated workforce and our 10 local universities and colleges,” said Quentin Messer, President & CEO of the New Orleans Business Alliance. “This professional support operation is additional proof that our local economy continues to diversify while building upon the city’s historic strengths. Most importantly, EY’s decision gives residents additional opportunities to build dynamic careers with a leading international organization here at home.”