The operations center became fully operational April 20 and currently houses 200 colleagues in technology, customer care, collections, fraud management and human resources.

The office will eventually hold 500 employees with 300 expected to be working there by the end of this year.

"The new location in Newark complements our U.S. customer contact operations," said Lloyd M. Wirshba, Chief Executive Officer, Barclaycard US.
"We're thrilled with the talented individuals we've been able to attract to this new facility. They share the enthusiasm of the rest of the Barclaycard team for providing outstanding customer service and going the extra mile for our cardholders."

The two-hour opening ceremony included an official ribbon-cutting to dedicate the new Barclaycard facility and remarks from executives and community leaders. Tours of the facility and a reception followed.

"My colleagues and I are delighted to celebrate the opening of the Newark site," said Joe Purzycki, Chief Operating Officer, Barclaycard US. "The location is ideal with access to major transportation, great educational institutions, nearby amenities and a state-of-the-art technology platform already in place."

In April, Barclays hosted an information session at the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall for individuals looking to fill customer contact positions at the Newark site. Many of the new hires currently in training were sourced through the information session.

At the ceremony, Mr. Wirshba highlighted the focus by the company on community service. Barclaycard colleagues donate thousands of hours each year to volunteer efforts. Patricia Beebe, President and Chief Executive Officer of Food Bank of Delaware based in Newark, thanked the company for its long-time partnership with the Food Bank at the ceremony. In a special campaign completed May 15, Barclaycard colleagues collected 34,000 pounds of food for the organization.