Member Article

Theatre company’s contact centre relocation set to stage 60 new jobs in Sunderland

Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), a live-theatre company with over 40 venues, is to create up to 60 jobs in Sunderland by relocating some of its Contact Centre function to the city.

Working in partnership with Sunderland Council the Contact Centre will be located at ATG’s Sunderland Empire. The Centre is due to open in September, later this year.

The contact centre will be built within the former hospitality suite at Sunderland Empire and work commenced this week for the opening on 14th September 2015.

Ben Phillips, General Manager at Sunderland Empire, said: “We are delighted that the contact centre will be based in Sunderland, we are the West End of the North East so it is only fitting to help support contact centre operations for ATG at our venue, creating an influx of 60 new jobs for the area”.

Sunderland has a strong reputation within the contact centre industry and is the home of major call centre operations for companies including Barclays, Parseq and npower.

Cllr John Kelly, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture at Sunderland City Council said: “The Empire Theatre plays a key role in the city’s cultural life and economy, attracting large numbers of visitors into Sunderland to see top quality shows, many of which have transferred from London’s West End.

“We are delighted ATG has selected Sunderland as one of its two new national ticket sales centres which will further boost the Empire’s already strong role within the city’s economy and raise the profile of the theatre on a local, regional and national level.

“This adds another big name to Sunderland’s thriving contact centre sector, and enhances our reputation within the industry as a location for skilled, friendly staff and a can-do attitude.”

Councillor Paul Watson, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “This is a real coup for the city to be chosen by ATG for the new call centre. As owners of the Empire Theatre, we’re thrilled the Council has been able to play a role in attracting further new employment to Sunderland.

“We are keen to hear from other employers looking for a new base, whether they are in the contact centre, manufacturing or other industries, and can supply help, advice and support for many businesses seeking premises in Sunderland.”