A MUTUAL is pushing on with plans to create 130 jobs and could expand its branch network, its boss has told The Northern Echo.

Newcastle Building Society aims to bolster its workforce to continue satisfying an ever-changing market.

Confirmation comes after the business last year created 118 posts when a £10m investment programme to revamp branches and its website was complemented by continued customer demand, which delivered higher mortgage lending and profits.

Andrew Haigh, chief executive, said he aims to maintain such momentum, with around 130 jobs identified across roles such as customer service and technical positions.

He also revealed the firm would keep assessing potential areas for expansion, highlighting the success of a previous decision to create a library-based mutual in Yarm, near Stockton.

Reiterating plans outlined to the Echo earlier this year, he said: “We will probably add another 130 people this year.

“It is about a continuous review of what we have got; town centres change and the places where people want to interact changes too.

“It feels about right at the moment but we would never discount the opportunity if we found something like Yarm.

“We are really pleased with how that has gone.

“We will make sure we are in the right place; our commitment is to the region.”

Mr Haigh was speaking after the mutual last week officially moved into Darlington’s Horsemarket following a shift from a smaller site in nearby Skinnergate.

However, he said the transfer represented more than just a fresh lick of paint, with a desire to continue providing a personal service for all members a key target.

Mr Haigh added: “The move is a sign of our commitment to our branch network and the region we represent.

“What makes us different is the relationships we build up with the communities we serve, which we are proud to be part of.

“What we have done in Darlington is significant because it will enable more conversations; the barriers are out of the way. It is about personal relationships.

“The digital side is still important to us and people can go online but we want to have those face-toface conversations.”

Newcastle Building Society’s branch network extends right across the North-East, with its Darlington and Yarm bases complemented by sites in Durham City, Consett, Chester-le-Street and Barnard Castle, in County Durham, and Stokesley, in North Yorkshire.