GE stated it increased its workforce in Chicago by adding 500 jobs in the city since announcing the company’s commitment to grow its local employee base in May 2011.

Of the 500 jobs, the majority have been within GE Capital; however, other GE businesses have also increased their presence.  The increase reflects GE’s desire to build on the company’s strong presence in the region and continue to serve current and potential customers. Currently, GE has 1,500 employees in Chicago and 4,300 across the State of Illinois.

“Chicago is a great place to build a foundation for future growth in the middle-market because Chicago is the financial hub of the middle-market,” said GE Capital, Americas President and CEO Dan Henson. “Adding jobs in Chicago allows us to better serve this market and creates tremendous opportunity for our current and future employees.”

GE Capital and Slate, an online magazine, are also in Chicago today for the Roadshow for Growth, a 20-city bus tour aimed at spotlighting key contributions, opportunities and challenges of middle-market companies. Chicago middle-market companies are key customers for GE Capital and its jobs here support them.

“GE is taking a lead role in strengthening the City’s economy,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “As an industry leader and good corporate citizen, GE’s presence further establishes Chicago as a world-class city.”

“Chicago works for GE because of its central location, vast talent pool and growing economy. In turn, GE works for Chicago by adding jobs and our investment back into the community through volunteer hours and grant support,” continued Henson.

Read the full GE press release, click here.