Vodafone confirms 80 jobs are to go
The telecommunications firm said that the positions were to go from its technology and IT departments.
The Newbury Weekly News approached the company two weeks ago amid rumours a number of staff had been made redundant, but Vodafone denied any knowledge of the cuts. This week, however, it has said 80 roles would be lost.
Spokeswoman Jane Frapewell said: “This is part of our ongoing strategy to ensure that our resourcing is best-placed to meet customer needs and enhance our services. We will provide support to individuals affected to find other roles within or outside the company.”
Union Prospect, which has members affected by the cuts, has suggested that Vodafone intended to re-advertise some of the positions at a lower rate. It accused the firm of making people redundant via the back door, and using “cut-throat” tactics by issuing compromise agreements.
According to Prospect, employees were informed by the head of service operations in a meeting that all posts would be re-advertised, a move that would avoid the need to provide notice.
Spokeswoman Caroline Hemmington, said: “We have even heard reports from members that these posts will be re-advertised at a lower rate which, if true, means these are cost-cutting measures dressed up to sound like redundancy, especially if there are no clear selection criteria.
“In the absence of a recognised union [at Vodafone] at the very least a company consultative forum should be invoked.
Prospect is seeking further clarification from the company on this matter.”
“Vodafone’s business principles state they ‘base relationships within and between employees on respect for individuals’. However this latest round of redundancies badged as a ‘talent refresh’ has left employees reeling by the callous disregard of the people involved and the loyalty they have given to Vodafone, some over many years.”
She added that employees concerned had seen no evidence of Vodafone making any effort to redeploy anyone within the company.
Prospect’s statement about the re-advertising of jobs was put to Vodafone, but the firm said it had no further comment.