ONE of the UK’s biggest insurance brokers has opened a brand new office in Swindon, with the prospect of hundreds of jobs being created for local people.

Be Wiser Insurance, one of the country’s fastest growing insurance brokers, plans to create some 350 jobs in the town over the next three years and has already taken on more than 50 staff.

The company’s decision to open a new office in Swindon has been welcomed by local MPs and councillors as the official opening took place at Edison Park on Friday.

Robert Buckland, MP for South Swindon, said: “Growing a strong local economy that is supportive of businesses and creates jobs is one of my top priorities. I am very pleased that Be Wiser is the latest big business to move to the area, bringing with it job opportunities that will boost the jobs market and the economy.”

Andrew Dunkerley, Be Wiser’s financial director, said: “Swindon is the perfect place to set up our second office and grow our business. Already we have been busy recruiting bright, motivated staff from the local area and we look forward to taking on even more in the coming years.”

The company currently employs more than 700 people at its headquarters in Andover, Hampshire, and the new office in Swindon is a major part of its development plans.

Councillor Garry Perkins, cabinet member for economy, regeneration and skills at Swindon Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted that Be Wiser has chosen to base its new office in Swindon. As a council we have been working incredibly hard to make the town an attractive place to do business and that fact that a major insurance broker has decided to set up shop here proves the success of that mission.”

Richard Smith, chief operating manager, said: “It’s a really exciting opportunity to expand the company by coming to Swindon and we’re looking forward to taking on more staff and helping to grow the local economy.”

After cutting the ribbon, Robert Buckland said: “I’d like to officially welcome Be Wiser to Swindon. Here’s to many happy years in business.”