'This is very welcome news': Delight as Bank of America secures Belfast office and begins Northern Ireland recruitment drive for 100 new jobs
World’s second largest bank takes space at City Quays and starts hiring for first 100 roles, with workforce set to grow significantly to 1,000
The world’s second largest bank has confirmed the location of its first office in Northern Ireland as it prepares to begin operations in the region.
Bank of America has secured office space at Belfast’s City Quays development and is currently progressing recruitment for its first 100 roles in Northern Ireland. The bank has indicated that the workforce is expected to grow significantly over time, with up to 1,000 positions planned.
The development has been welcomed by DUP economy spokesman Phillip Brett MLA, who said the decision represents a boost for Belfast and the wider Northern Ireland economy.
“This is very welcome news not just for Belfast, but for Northern Ireland as a whole,” Mr Brett said. “Bank of America’s decision to locate in the City Quays development and begin recruiting immediately underlines the growing international confidence in our local workforce and business environment.
“The creation of high-value roles by one of the world’s largest banks is a strong endorsement of Northern Ireland’s talent base. Per capita, Northern Ireland is second only to Greater London in securing foreign direct investment.
“Crucially, financial services are not within the harmful remit of the Protocol and to date the Minister for the Economy has been unable to provide a single example of FDI secured as a result of the Protocol.
“While others continue to act as cheerleaders for arrangements that undermine Northern Ireland’s economic foundations, this party will always stand up for jobs, investment and our place in the United Kingdom.
“As the DUP has consistently made clear, the UK Internal Market is vital to our economy and our place within it must be fully restored. This announcement is yet another example of the vital nature of the UK Internal Market to the success of Northern Ireland.”
Bank of America’s move adds to Belfast’s growing reputation as a hub for international financial and professional services firms, with City Quays already home to a number of multinational employers.