Unilever’s Job Cuts: Why we need to take note

Unilever announced in March it was to cut 7,500 jobs globally and spin off its ice-cream division as part of an overhaul aimed at saving about €800m (£684m) over the next three years.

The consumer goods company, whose brands range from Marmite and Hellmann’s mayonnaise to Dove soap, Lynx and Domestos bleach, employs 128,000 people worldwide. It said staff would be consulted about the cuts.

Unilever is not alone announcing significant business change aiming to ‘streamline operations and focus on strengths’.

Their Productivity Improvement plan will cost €800m over 3 years with the goal to drive efficiency and fuel growth & profitability.

As Leaders & Workers we need to take note:

🚨Tech Driven Change requires a total company approach and Acumen at all levels

🚨 Careers need a Rethink: Upskill & Plan B

This is a sign of our times.

➡️ However 70% of digital transformations fail, common issues being that they go over budget or don’t deliver on time. Building Tech and Digital acumen is needed, at all levels.

➡️ TOP TIP: Start with employees!

They often know where inefficiencies are & are jumping up and down wanting their suggestions to be heard.

➡️ Silo’s no longer work - instead you need a culture built around accountability, results driven and process focussed.

➡️ Upskill & Have a Plan B 🔥

This news is not surprising.

We all need to be looking ahead, planning what we’d do if automation comes to us. What are our transferable skills, what new jobs are emerging e.g. in Data, AI, ESG, and what lights us up?

As Silvia Wiesner says “Life Pivots Make Better Leaders”. Her TedTalk on the subject can be found here: Watch on YouTube