Robert Gordon University Announces Potential for 135 Further Job Redundancies

Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen has announced the potential for up to 135 additional job losses as part of an initiative to save millions of pounds. This follows an earlier voluntary severance scheme this year, which saw 130 employees depart. RGU has now communicated to all its employees about proposed changes, pending consultation, which include the possibility of 135 further positions being made redundant as part of ongoing restructuring efforts. According to RGU, these measures are intended to guarantee the “long-term financial sustainability” of the university. The university stated that employees whose roles are at risk would be given the option of voluntary redundancy, expressing a desire to minimize the necessity for compulsory job cuts. Furthermore, it anticipates that the number of staff leaving will be fewer than 135, thanks to available redeployment opportunities. A consultation period regarding these proposed changes is scheduled to conclude on 20 December. In a statement, RGU affirmed: “Robert Gordon University has today informed all staff of the latest developments of its Finance Transformation Project.” The statement continued: “This includes a proposed business case, subject to collective consultation, that contains the potential of 135 roles being made redundant as part of further restructuring proposals across areas of the university.” It further explained: “This is to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the institution against significant external challenges.” Prof Steve Olivier, RGU’s principal and vice-chancellor, commented: “Like many universities across the UK, Robert Gordon University continues to face significant financial challenges due to a steep drop in international student enrolments, a sustained decline in public funding, and inflationary cost pressures.” He added: “The proposed changes will future-proof RGU as an institution and ensure that we maintain our provision of an excellent student experience while delivering vital social, economic and cultural contributions to the north east and wider nation.” Following the conclusion of the collective consultation, individual consultations are set to commence in the New Year.