Zurich plans to axe UK call centre

More than 700 jobs at insurance firm Zurich could be axed as part of plans to close its Newcastle call centre and move some of the work to India.

Zurich said it believes the business can improve its effectiveness and efficiency by operating across a smaller number of locations.

As a result of the operational review Zurich is looking to close its Newcastle call centre by the end of March next year and transfer some work out of its Cardiff and Portsmouth operations a few months later.

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The proposals will affect all 505 jobs in Newcastle as well as 139 jobs in Portsmouth and 86 jobs in Cardiff.

All 730 of the affected staff have been placed at risk of redundancy and Zurich has now begun a 90 day consultation period with the trade union.

A Zurich spokeswoman told silicon.com: "Should these proposals go ahead roles will be created in consumer services and claims - both within established offices in the UK and in India."

The company said it will also offer help and support to those staff who want to pursue other opportunities within Zurich.