Financial services firm to create 168 jobs in Glasgow

The news comes after Tesco announced last week that it was creating 200 jobs in the city in its banking division.

The Scottish Government is investing 1.7 million into a proposed centre of excellence in Glasgow's financial services hub through regional selective assistance (RSA) funding.

Mr Salmond said: "I'm delighted that the Vertex Group is expanding its operations in Scotland.

"Vertex has two well-established sites in Forres and Dingwall and the company's decision to move into Glasgow's thriving international financial services district is very welcome."

The Vertex group is a leading business process outsourcing (BPO) firm and employs 15,000 people worldwide.

The Tesco Bank work will be contracted out to the firm to undertake.

Vertex Chief executive Paul Sweeny said: "Scotland's enviable track record in the financial services sector is well known.

"We're delighted that we're able to continue to be part of this success and to contribute to the creation of further roles in Glasgow.

"Today's announcement not only signals our firm commitment to the city but it also highlights our longer-term ambition to tap into Scottish talent to further expand our centre of excellence."

Recruitment for the first phase of the project, which will be based at Atlantic Quay in Glasgow, will start before the end of the year.

Anne MacColl, interim chief executive of Scottish Development International, welcomed the news.

She added: "This is a fantastic jobs boost for Glasgow and it is very encouraging to see an RSA award going towards creating a financial services centre of excellence."