They’re gearing up for the digitisation and automation of its workforce
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Telco group Optus is preparing to slash another 440 jobs as it ‘evolves’ the way it works and ‘embraces’ new technology to remain competitive, the company announced.
“We are structuring our organisation to become the next-generation Optus and continue to meet the needs of our customers,” the group said.
Optus called the move necessary as it gears up for the digitisation and automation of its workforce. The latest cuts will affect roles made redundant with the introduction of new tech.
“[We] are removing duplication, improving our operating efficiency, and embracing next-generation technologies,” Optus said.
The new wave of retrenchment will take place over the next two months, bringing the total number of job cuts to 1,040. The company earlier axed 400 jobs in May and another 200 jobs when it shuttered its subsidiary of Virgin Mobile.
The job cuts at Optus reflect a wider industry trend as other telcos have been downsizing amid increasing competition. In June, Telstra removed 8,000 employees.
Optus said it is reaching out to affected personnel and exploring opportunities for redeployment. The Communications Workers Union (CWU), however, criticised the ‘drastic decision’.
“Optus management is showing clear contempt for its workforce by continuing to slash hundreds of jobs with absolutely no consultation with the workforce, while they’ve been sitting at the table with the union to bargain for a new enterprise agreement,” said Shane Murphy of the CWU.
