Following recent acquisitions that have increased its global workforce by more than 1,100 associates, Schneider National Inc., announced that it is undergoing a company-wide staff alignment effort
to support the company's growing global strategy.
Approximately 170 positions are being eliminated and an additional 85 associates are being redeployed to growth areas of the business. According to company officials, the alignment effort will impact less than one percent of the company's 22,300 associates worldwide. Approximately 120 of the eliminated positions are located at the company's Green Bay, Wis., headquarters.
"Like any growing, dynamic company, we regularly review and adjust our staffing levels to most efficiently meet our strategic business objectives," said Schneider National Executive Vice President of Human Resources Tim Fliss. "A recent review led to the redeployment of a number of associates, scaled back hiring in some departments, and certain role reductions," he said.
At the same time, Fliss noted, Schneider is actively recruiting in areas of the company, and will continue to do so. "Even after these changes, our total workforce will grow by the end of 2006 and beyond," Fliss said. "This is about aligning the organization with our strategy and improved operational efficiencies."
Impacted associates were informed of the job changes Wednesday morning. Job changes are effective immediately, with impacted associates coming from departments across the organization. Company support for non-redeployed associates includes salary continuation packages, career transition services and an extended Employee Assistance Program.
According to CEO and President Chris Lofgren, the workforce realignment is another aspect of Schneider's evolving global strategy. In June, the company announced plans to divest its Specialized and Payment Services divisions, and within the last year has acquired two new subsidiaries, American Port Services and American Overseas Air Freight in support of its international strategy.
"Schneider National has a strong financial and operational foundation. We stay strong by making good decisions and changing when we need to change," said Lofgren. "While this is a normal, ongoing part of any business, it doesn't diminish the fact that there are a number of associates impacted by the decisions we make to achieve our long-term objectives. Achieving these goals benefits our customers, suppliers, carriers, our company and our associates."