MEMO: Voluntary Departure Program at Metroland Media
Metroland Media, which includes the Hamilton Spectator and Guelph Mercury, has extended their voluntary buyout program to full-time and part-time staff.
In May we introduced a VDP to all Metroland staff in response to the changing nature of our industry and the need to reconfigure our workforce to respond to the revenue declines we were facing. We were able to accept 100 requests for the program, which along with ongoing management of staffing levels, we had hoped would position us well for the future.
Unfortunately, despite much hard work and some encouraging initiatives, revenue declines have continued at a rapid pace and we are once again looking at the need for cost savings. As such we are offering a Voluntary Departure program to full-time and part-time staff, excluding sales representatives and part-time mailroom staff.
The program is designed to eliminate positions. Any position that is eliminated through this program will not be replaced. We will be aggressive when deciding on the feasibility of accepting applications. However, individuals accepting a VDP will not be eligible for rehire within Metroland.
If you are interested in details related to your particular situation, including pension information for those considering a Bridge to Retirement, please contact the corporate H.R. Department and they will be happy to provide the information.
Applications for the VDP must be sent to your Regional HR Manager by November 23rd. The company will advise of the acceptance or rejection of the application by November 27th. Resignations will take place by December 11, 2015. Details of the program are available on MyMetNet under News and Announcements.
Thank you for your continued support as we work through this difficult transition.
Ian Oliver
President
Metroland Media
H.G. Watson was J-Source's managing editor from 2015 to 2018. She is a journalist based in Toronto. You can learn more about her at hgwatson.com.