Geordie hospitality was behind a global security firm’s pledge to bring 1,000 new jobs to the North of Tyne.
Verisure UK Services Limited has announced that the Quorum Business Park in North Tyneside is the location of its new UK operating site, with a commitment to create 1,000 jobs. The company, which is Europe’s largest domestic alarm provider, with more than 3.3 million customers in 17 countries, is already advertising roles within its marketing and operations teams and expects to have 100 people in place this year.
Finance director for Verisure UK Armony Vaque said: “We shortlisted 14 cities around the UK and at the end we chose Newcastle. We had a lot of support from the Mayor and the North East region, but what made us really commit was the support of the people here. Everybody was so very friendly and supportive; it was a game changer.”
Verisure is investing £3 million in the move and has an existing operations facility in Brentford, from where staff have been given the opportunity to relocate. However, the vast majority of jobs will be offered to people in the North East and will be in customer service, technical support, field operations, training, IT, telesales, HR and finance. The company has signed an 11-year lease at the 104,000 sq ft The NEON Building, which is currently being adapted to meet its needs.
Jamie Driscoll, Mayor of the North of Tyne Combined Authority, hailed the move. He said: “I’m here to help create good, permanent jobs for the North of Tyne region and this is a cracking start. I met with the directors of Verisure and I could tell they were impressed with everything we had to offer. I was impressed by their commitment to being good employers. Verisure is the first of many companies we’re bringing to the area and I’m looking forward to working with them over the long-term.”
Verisure’s managing director, Gabino Sanchez, said: “We have chosen North Tyneside as the ideal location for our new site after deep analysis of more than 15 of the UK’s larger urban areas. It stood out for many reasons including the friendliness of the people, the incredible quality of life and the high standard of education.”
Cllr Bruce Pickard, Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside and North of Tyne Cabinet member for Economic Growth, said: “I know the team here at the council have been working with the company for more than a year to help make this move a reality. I am pleased to be able to support this great addition to the local economy. We wish all the staff at Verisure all the best for the future.”