Bank of America to Add Over 500 Jobs in Delaware By 2015

Bank of America plans to add more than 500 jobs over the next three years to its significantly diminished Delaware workforce, Gov. Jack Markell announced today.

"Bank of America's commitment to add hundreds of jobs here is a strong endorsement of both the quality of our workforce and our State's commitment to the middle-class careers this industry supports," the governor said.

Bank of America has been trimming staff in Delaware in the past decade after acquiring MBNA, which at one time had a workforce of 10,000 in the state, while refraining from massive restructurings and layoffs here, reports the Newark, Del.-based Post Online.

The company refuses to release unemployment numbers, but the head count in Delaware is believed to be in the 6,000 to 7,000 employee range, the Post Online stated, adding that currently, Bank of America employees are stationed near Newark and at MBNA’s former headquarters in Wilmington.

The news from Bank of America comes after the Federal Reserve Board approved the merger of Wilmington-based ING Direct and credit card giant Capital One. Capital One has pledged to add 500 jobs in the state as well.

“This industry has been one of the foundations of our state's economy for many years,” Gov. Markell said of the announcement. “We have people with the experience and energy to help these companies succeed. Looking forward, Bank of America sees a future that includes more Delawareans working to make them successful."

Bank of America Co-Chief Operating Officer David Darnell stated that “Gov. Markell has always encouraged us to grow in Delaware. Along with the General Assembly, the congressional delegation and Mayor Baker, they have all created an exceptional environment for us to do business."

“While we continue to create a stronger, more efficient organization throughout our footprint, we are pleased to be able to do more in a community that is home to thousands of our people,” he said.