Scores of American Express employees have been told their jobs are moving abroad.

A total of 200 staff in Brighton are expected to lose their jobs under plans to “migrate and realign” some of their jobs.

It is understood back office roles, such as administration, finance, human resources, marketing and servicing, are going to be moved abroad.

In January the company announced that 5,400 jobs were being cut internationally but would not say if it would affect Brighton, where 3,400 of the firm’s 63,500 workforce are based.

On Thursday evening emails were sent to staff explaining the company plans.

One employee, who asked not to be named, said: “It seems clear that they want to make a frontline base in Brighton but there will be no back office any more.”

Another said: “We heard about 200 people might be affected, but nothing is certain.

“All the back office jobs are being moved to Argentina and India.”

An official announcement about how many jobs are being lost in Brighton is not expected before May 1.

Doug Smith, the vice-president of public affairs and communications at American Express, said: “No final decisions have been made in relation to these proposals until we have completed the appropriate consultation process.

“Over the coming weeks we will continue to provide ongoing support and counselling to those employees who are impacted by these proposals

“As a company American Express remains committed to Brighton. “We have recently opened our new centre at 1 John Street and continue to play an active role in the local community through our volunteering programmes and sponsorships, which include the American Express Community Stadium.”