Reuters reports that Anglo American confirmed on Thursday that it has suspended hiring globally as it gets plans under way to simplify itself, build value and avert a R785bn takeover bid by Australia’s BHP.
Anglo laid out plans on Tuesday to refocus its company on energy transition metal (copper) while spinning out or selling off its less profitable coal, nickel, diamond and platinum businesses. “Having set out the results of our strategy review and the changes we will be making to our portfolio, this (a hiring freeze) is an appropriate measure. Clearly there will be exceptions for critical roles,” an Anglo spokesperson indicated. Reuters had earlier reported the hiring freeze based on an internal memo from people and organisation director Monique Carter, who wrote: “Following yesterday’s announcement of our plans to unlock significant value through a simplification of our portfolio … it is appropriate that we put in place a freeze on the recruitment of all non site-based permanent employees and contractors across all businesses and group functions. In instances where formal written offers have been made to a candidate, we will honour those commitments however no new offers should be made.” Site-based employees are workers who are based at mines. Anglo employs about 60,000 staff globally of which slightly more than half are based in SA. Australia’s mining and energy union said on Wednesday it would seek urgent meetings with Anglo to discuss workers’ job security.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Scott Murdoch & Melanie Burton at BusinessLive
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