HSBC will begin the process of recruiting staff for its new e7 million Global Call Centre in June.

Work on the refurbishment of the Swatar premises, where the centre will be housed, is already underway.

The centre is expected to begin handling calls from high value customers of HSBC Bank plc in October.

A substantial number of new employees, on both a full-time and part-time basis, will be required. Potential applicants will be required to demonstrate good customer service skills and a high standard of English.

“In the next few days, adverts will begin appearing across the media to encourage those with the appropriate skills to apply to be part of this exciting development. HSBC’s Global Call Centre will be servicing the needs of some of our most valuable customers,” said HSBC Malta chief executive Shaun Wallis.

“This is a challenge but also an opportunity to begin a career with the world’s local bank here in Malta. The project is running on track to begin operating before the end of this year,” he said.