Bank to create 65 new customer services jobs in Jersey

Thursday 08 October 2015

Barclays is set to take on 65 new staff in Jersey, mostly in customer-facing roles, as part of a plan to grow services for local customers.

The new jobs will include relationship managers and in-branch staff who will be able to handle calls from Jersey clients on the island. The new jobs will effectively replace the 63 jobs that will disappear from Jersey's banking sector when ABN Amro leave the Island next year.

Paul Savery, Managing Director of Barclays, said: "This is a major investment from Barclays. Jersey is an important and valuable jurisdiction for us as a Bank and one where we are confident of further growth. The investment will see us further improve the range of services delivered by locally based colleagues; something I know our clients value.

"We have operated in Jersey for nearly 100 years, and have a clear growth strategy which enables us to be confident of the years ahead. The announcement of so many new jobs is a clear demonstration of that confidence.”

Both the States of Jersey and Jersey Finance have welcomed the move which comes just days after ABN Amro announced the closure of its Jersey operation as part of a plan to reduce global banking staff.

Assistant Chief Minister Senator Philip Ozouf said: “It is very reassuring to see an organisation of Barclays' stature making such a long term investment in, and commitment to, the island.”

According to the latest Labour Market Survey, over 12,500 people work in finance in Jersey, taking employment in finance close to pre-economic crisis levels.

Geoff Cook, CEO of Jersey Finance, said: “We’re delighted Barclays has chosen to increase its operational capacity in Jersey. 2014 saw 400 additional jobs created in the finance sector and firms are increasingly positive about future employment.”

Founded 325 years ago Barclays operates in over 50 countries, employing over 130,000 people. The jobs are to be advertised to locally-qualified people, although it is not clear if J-cat licences will be granted should roles not be filled.

Mr Savary added: "Clearly this shows our commitment to the island and our support for the economy. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Island and its economy and clearly recognise that this investment is great news not only for Barclays, our colleagues and our clients but also for the island as a whole."