Eisai to cut 600 US jobs
Part of a restructuring that will be in place by 1 April
Japanese drugmaker Eisai Co Ltd is to cut 20% of its US workforce, or 600 jobs by 1 April, in order to create savings to ensure that it remains competitive.
Eisai's US operations include research and development, manufacturing, sales and marketing, and administrative functions.
The company said it does not plan to close any of its main offices or facilities in the US.
The US job cuts are part of a 900-person reduction – 200 European positions will also go, in addition to 100 sales jobs in Japan.
Eisai said the restructuring supports its mid-term strategic plan for fiscal years 2011–2015, of becoming more efficient and focused. The company said it would maintain a focus on oncology and neuroscience.
‘This restructuring is essential to our remaining competitive in this rapidly changing environment,’ said Lonnel Coats, president and ceo of Eisai Inc. ‘It will enable us continually to make the necessary investments in our science, our people and ultimately our human health care (hhc) mission.’
The new US structure is expected to be in place by the start of FY2011, which begins 1 April.
‘We are aware of the impact that our reorganisation will have on some employees and will work with them to ensure that their transition to new careers is as smooth as possible,’ added Coats.