ANZ, one of Australia’s prominent banks, issued an apology to employees who learned of their termination via an automated email instructing them to return their laptops. The bank’s retail banking executive, Bruce Rush, stated that it was not the company’s intention to convey such sensitive information this way, particularly as it undertakes job cuts within its retail banking sector.
The bank clarified that the emails were sent prematurely due to an error and noted that it has ceased the distribution of such communications. It has since engaged in personal discussions with affected staff. The Financial Sector Union expressed concern over the incident, citing that the email triggered feelings of “panic and distress” and criticized the rapid pace of organizational changes within ANZ.
Wendy Streets, the president of the union, pointed out that the union had not been consulted regarding the recent changes at the bank, asserting that “ANZ must do better.” She emphasized that expediency and cost reduction should not compromise the dignity and respect owed to workers.
Mr. Rush communicated to the staff that the emails unnecessarily indicated an exit date for some employees before they had been informed of their termination outcomes. Following the realization of the mix-up, ANZ apologized and organized a virtual meeting to address staff inquiries. The bank also expedited formal discussions regarding employees’ roles.
ANZ expressed its commitment to treating employees with dignity and respect amid organizational changes. The issue has drawn parallels to past incidents, such as a 2021 episode where 900 employees were terminated during an online Zoom call by the CEO of a different firm, which was later deemed poorly managed.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c776plg6n8vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss