Sensis has confirmed it is looking to cut about 800 jobs across the nation, and is commencing discussions with staff about the cuts.
The company, which operates the White and Yellow Pages among other directory businesses, says it is focusing on its digital operations which require fewer staff.
“These changes are designed to support our growing digital business, respond to competition and deliver improvements in the service we provide to our customers,” Sensis managing director John Allan said in a statement.
“As a leader in digital marketing services and print directories serving Australian businesses, Sensis needs to remain responsive to the changing media landscape. While these decisions are difficult, they are necessary to ensure Sensis maintains its competitive position.”
As part of the restructure, Sensis says it will create two telephone sales centres in Melbourne and Sydney with “multi-touch service”.
The ABC understands approximately 330 jobs will go from Victoria and 400 in New South Wales, with the remainder scattered across regional areas around the country.
A Sensis spokeswoman says the cuts are not related to last month’s announcement that Telstra is selling 70 per cent of Sensis to a US private equity firm.
Mr Allan says Sensis is now commencing consultations with employees and their unions on the proposed changes.
“These are very difficult decisions and are never taken lightly,” he said.
“We are working with our people to keep them informed and to provide support for those who may be affected by the proposed changes should they proceed.”
source: abc.net.au
