By Callie Hietala
A new company will invest more than $200,000 and create 50 jobs in the area beginning November 15. Helpware, a digital customer service company with a self-described employee-first culture, will establish an office in the Clocktower at Commonwealth Centre (300 Franklin Street) in Martinsville. The average anticipated hourly wage for the new positions is $23.30 before benefits which, according to Helpware’s President and CEO Robert Nash, are substantial.
Jobs will include both on-site and remote positions in management, IT, and customer support to boost the company’s digital customer service, back-office support, start-up acceleration, content control, and AI operations, among other services. The company expects to begin filling the new positions by the end of November.
“I am beyond proud to be working and growing with the amazing people of Henry County,” Nash said. “Our company is focused on leading the evolution of consumer expectations changing the services market as we know it.”
Nash said that a dedication to putting employees first sets Helpware apart from other companies.
“Our drive is to create the absolute best environment for our people and enable them for success. They are the foundation of our accountable and people-focused service offerings. When we empower the people taking care of customers we transcend from tasks to memorable and brand-transforming experiences,” he said.
Andrew Palmer (second from left), vice president of the Lester Development Corporation, showed city council member Danny Turner (far left), and Kimberly Keller and Sharon Shepherd, of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, office space in the Clocktower at Commonwealth Centre that will soon be occupied by Helpware. Palmer said that while there will be some on-site positions, a majority of the jobs will be remote work.
Andrew Palmer, vice president of the Lester Development Corporation, which owns the Clocktower building, said this Helpware site will help landlords and tenants who have encountered pandemic-related difficulties with paying or collecting rent to complete applications for rental assistance.
Nash, who is based in Kentucky, is enthused about the warm welcome he received from area residents during his visits. The values he sees in local people, he said, also are reflected in Helpware’s attitude toward its employees.
“Of all the places I’ve been able to visit and make friends, the people of Martinsville and Henry County have always treated me like family,” he said. “I am very excited to work and invest within this community that shares our values.”
