The Financial Conduct Authority aims to recruit 100 new staff for a regional office it will establish in Leeds.
The centre will house its Digital Delivery Centre alongside other key FCA business teams and will be operational from September.
William Hague, director of change and transformation at the FCA, is leading the establishment of the office. Hague has a background working in central government including the Cabinet Office and HM Revenue & Customs.
Phil Nixon has been appointed as head of the Digital Delivery Centre. He is a data services expert and has worked for the NHS and IBM.
The regulator has already signed a deal for premises at 6 Queen Street in the heart of the city’s business district.
FCA chief executive Nikhil Rathi said: “As a national regulator, it is vital we have a truly national footprint. That means having colleagues in all parts of the UK.
“I’m delighted that we’re moving a step closer to opening our new Leeds office, in a city with a growing reputation as a digital and tech hub.”
Leeds City Council leader James Lewis said: “Leeds City Council has worked hard to ensure that Leeds is seen as an attractive destination for business and organisations, and it’s great to see that recognised as more organisations move into our city.
“The city has financial, digital and tech sectors that are strong and resilient, with a population that is innovative, diverse and brimming with talent. We look forward to welcoming the Financial Conduct Authority to the city.”
Last year, the FCA unveiled plans for regional offices across the UK. It earmarked Leeds, Belfast and Cardiff as possible locations for its regional hubs.
This was outlined in the regulator’s business plan which sets out key priorities for transforming the FCA.
It also announced plans to double the headcount at its Edinburgh office to more than 200 over the next two years.
The FCA has 4,000 staff in its offices in London and Edinburgh.
