DIGITAL bank Atom has launched a recruitment drive as part of plans to create hundreds of North-East jobs.

The Durham City-based lender, which has already built up a 100-strong team, is taking on customer service staff who will be based at its Aykley Heads offices.

The new recruits, whose job title will be ‘Atom Gurus’ will be brought into the business in groups of 15 for induction and training.

The bank, which will operate no branches and manage accounts via mobile apps and online, expects to create about 340 jobs, most of them in the North-East.

Atom is based in offices formerly occupied by Durham County Council but its longer term aim is to move into purpose built headquarters at Durham's Rivergreen business park.

Atom is one of the new challenger banks aiming to offer an alternative to big High Street lenders which have been tarnished by scandals and are encumbered by out-moded computer systems. In June, the firm was granted a banking licence and its development team are now pressing ahead with testing products and systems before it starts signing customers up later this year.

Edward Twiddy, Atom’s, chief operating and innovation officer, said: “It’s a really exciting time at Atom.

“Having secured our licence from the Bank of England and had a significant boost from our investors over recent weeks, we are now pressing Go on the recruitment of our customer facing team. The roles – known as Atom Gurus – are central to the success and future of Atom.

“We are looking for people with the attitude and skills to keep our customers happy by ensuring they enjoy an excellent experience every time they contact us. From technical expertise to product knowledge, we’ll give you all the training you need to answer their queries with great confidence and zest. We offer a really competitive package and a great location and working atmosphere. Check out the Atom microsite at NRG for more information on how to apply."