SES, the Luxembourg-based satellite operator, has finalized a revised social plan, reducing the number of planned job cuts. Initially, management proposed eliminating 80 positions across engineering, IT, and administration. However, following negotiations with the OGBL and LCGB trade unions, and staff delegations, the final figure settled at 68 job losses. This reduction will result in approximately €4 million in savings for SES.
The unions expressed strong criticism of SES's actions, stating in a press release: “Over the past four years, SES has shown no loyalty or commitment to its staff or to the local economy in which it operates. And the implementation of previous restructuring plans, which should have been a turning point for the company, has ultimately turned into a negative dynamic that leaves little hope for long-term recovery.” They also pointed to a series of job retention plans between 2020 and 2024, costing the Luxembourg State €12 million, further highlighting their concerns.
The job cuts add to the uncertainty surrounding the SES workforce, particularly given the impending merger with Intelsat. The unions' statement also criticized a perceived lack of intervention from the Luxembourg government, leaving employees facing an uncertain future.