HUNDREDS of jobs could be axed at a Scots university under plans to save millions.
130 employees of Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen took voluntary severance earlier this year.
Hundreds more jobs could be axed at Robert Gordon University[/caption]
A further 135 roles could be made redundant as part of the institution’s Finance Transformation Project, reports the BBC.
RGU chiefs say they are facing “significant financial challenges” and that the proposals will “ensure the long-term financial sustainability” of the university.
Staff at risk will be offered voluntary redundancy and the university hopes to redeploy a number of employees.
Collective consultation is due to end on December 20 while individual consultation will begin early next year.
RGU said in a statement: “Robert Gordon University has today informed all staff of the latest developments of its Finance Transformation Project.
“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.
“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, added: “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.
“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.”
Elsewhere in Aberdeen, more than 20 jobs have been axed after a French manufacturing firm announced the closure of one of its major Scots branches.
Pipeline maker Vallourec confirmed it has shut its Aberdeen machine and pipe shop, citing “challenging North Sea market conditions.”
A total of 23 jobs were lost after the closure of the Bridge of Don site, but the company said the majority of those affected have already found a new role.
