FinTech Atom bank has officially opened its new headquarters in Newcastle, bringing its 600-strong team from Durham to the newly restored Pattern Shop – a Grade II listed building once home to Robert Stephenson & Co.

The multi-million-pound investment establishes the Pattern Shop as Atom’s new innovation hub, designed to foster collaboration, creativity and a modern working culture. 

It also supports the company’s pioneering four-day working week, introduced in 2021, which remains a key part of its employee offering.

As part of its expansion, the bank is currently hiring for nearly 30 new positions across multiple departments, including 14 customer support roles. 

New openings span engineering, data and operations as part of its plans to scale from its new headquarters. 

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“Our move to the Pattern Shop isn’t just a change of address; it’s a bold statement about our future and our belief in the North East,” said Atom bank CEO Mark Mullen. 

“We’re investing in a space that celebrates our region’s industrial past while providing a modern, flexible, and inspiring home for our people. 

“This new chapter will help us attract top talent and continue to challenge the status quo, proving that a truly innovative and profitable business can thrive right here in the North East.”

The business says it will continue to work closely with educational and community partners to expand opportunities in the region, particularly through its Early Careers Programme. 

The initiative includes the Atom Futures Fund, which supports students from low-income and care backgrounds, and the AMI Women in Technology Scholarships at Durham University.

Founded in 2014 and launched to the public two years later, Atom bank was the UK’s first app-only bank. 

It has since become one of the country’s highest-rated digital lenders, with over £4 billion in customer deposits.

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