CEO Jeff Roe has implemented a reorganization campaign that has eliminated the Oregon office, eliminated 300+ positions through attrition, lay-offs, and early retirement packages over the past year. He says it was to eliminate waste that customers wouldn't support and can't afford. Last week he created by promotion and outside hiring 4 Executive positions with salaries at or near seven figures.
Premera was once a company with a culture of unity. Departments have been downsized in the past through the same methods -- the difference is that there was forewarning and transparency around the process. "This team will transition to this function." or "This team will be eliminated because of this event - we will try to absorb their positions into other teams and their last day will be . . . " Today, Premera is a company with a culture of fear. Departments and positions are pink-slipped midweek and great employees are packed up and shown to the door by security -- quietly, secretly, to "protect their privacy."
HR was for the employee and cared about building corporate culture and our reputation as a great place to work. Premera used to brag to new hires about the longevity of our employees and their long careers -- celebrating anniversaries with the verve of birthdays. Now our leadership tells us directly, "We make no promises. We will see what tomorrow brings."
