A FAMILY-OWNED call centre firm has revealed plans to create more than 1,000 North-East jobs.

ResQ is moving into Spectrum Business Park, in Seaham, County Durham.

The company provides sales and support services for businesses across the digital, energy, retail and insurance sectors, and says it needs greater space as firms return work to the UK from abroad.

Nic Marshall, chief executive, said the company will deliver 1,200 posts at Seaham over the next three years, with staff needed across IT, HR, training and support roles.

He revealed 60 people have already started in the region, adding ResQ’s North-East move represents one of the region’s largest ever inward investments.

The business already employs nearly 700 staff at a site in Hull, but Mr Marshall said the base is full and unable to cope with ResQ’s continued contract successes.

He said: “Our growth is being driven by customers who are growing with us and returning contracts currently being undertaken overseas.

“We are delighted to be expanding our operations into the North-East and it means County Durham will benefit economically as we create hundreds of jobs.

“Spectrum Business Park and County Durham offer us quality premises and access to a high-quality workforce.”

The firm was supported by Business Durham, Durham County Council’s business division, on its expansion.

Councillor Neil Foster, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, said ResQ represents a real coup for the region, while Paul Wellstead, Spectrum Business Park developer, said he hoped the deal would be the catalyst for further arrivals.

Mr Wellstead added: “ResQ specifically targeted our excellent recruitment catchment and our location, which will enable it to grow.

“The park is now a vibrant community of organisations across all sectors and we hope to achieve full occupancy in all of our Grade A offices in the coming months.”

For more information on ResQ’s expansion and how to apply for jobs, visit resqcs.co.uk/careers/