HSBC UK to shut Malta call center in 2024
SWATAR, MALTA — Financial services firm HSBC UK will close its call center operations in Swatar, Malta, in June 2024, eliminating 200 jobs.
The center, operated by HSBC’s Global Services UK division, exclusively provides customer service and due diligence for HSBC UK Bank.
HSBC stated the closure aims to streamline regional contact centers. Employees learned of the decision last week during a special meeting. Despite months of anticipation, sources said workers were shocked. “People were in tears,” one told the Times of Malta.
HSBC asserted that the operations of HSBC Bank Malta, a separate entity, will be unaffected. HSBC will also maintain its local investment commitments, including upgrading ATMs and opening a new Qormi hub office next year.
Malta’s Economy Ministry immediately contacted companies with openings to enable rapid rehiring of affected staff. Multiple call centers and banks reported vacancies to absorb redundant employees.
The ministry will also facilitate worker transitions to maintain the utilization of existing skill sets.
Launched in 2006, HSBAC’s Swatar site leveraged Malta’s skilled English-speaking labor pool for the firm’s global customer service needs. Impacted staff will receive HSBC career support.
