An honest insider post, the REAL future at GSK.....

I have had access to executive level discussions regarding the GSK layoffs. I am posting this information from an anonymous "business center" computer location. I won't say anymore, except that my credibility is legitimate.

I understand that rumor, speculation, and misinformation is running rampant right now through out the entire GSK organization. I feel that the lack of communication with our sales force regarding the true intentions of this company is regrettable. I personally know quite a few of the excellent employees of GSK that will be terminated.

I am dismayed that executive level management has so little regard for the employees welfare. Yes, I remember the Zantac Hawaii trips! This is why I am being honest with you.

GSK is planning a second round of layoffs that will occur immediately before second quarter earnings are announced in 2008. Projected sales forecasts for Avandia family over the next six months are dire.

The current layoff scenario has been structured to appease shareholders and Wall Street analysts.

The layoff in 2008 will be attibuted to the new management team. They hope to be given credit by the Street for taking decisive action in the face of declining revenue. This may shore up the stock price at that time.

So you ask, "Why not just lay every one off now?" There is a good answer. The GSK Senior Executives very closely studied the Pfizer layoff from last year. Do Executives from different companies talk with each other? Yes, they do. Pfizer management noted that after the layoff, a significant portion of the sales organization was demoralized. This resulted in many subsequent resignations as Pfizer sales people found new jobs on their own. This resulted in Pfizer not having to pay these people severance packages. The net: Pfizer saved a tremendous amount of money by having a layoff followed by enhanced attrition.

GSK is planning the same situation. This is why the current layoff in not as large as it really needs to be. Two smaller layoffs is more cost effective than one large one.

I have been honest with you. If you survive the current layoff, there is no guarantee you will survive the next one in June 2008. Plan for your future accordingly.

I realize on Cafe Pharma some people will bash this information as false. However, you might be surprised how many people in VERY senior management read this board. They need to know that some managers still care about the employees. The point is, do what is best for you and your family.

I have to admit, it is sad to see what has happened to this once great company. I really hope GSK can recover, but nothing is guaranteed. Best of luck to all of you.

I appreciate the post. I think most realize this already.

Thanks for the honesty. We don't seem to be getting much of that lately.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

I appreciate the post. I think most realize this already.

So you are saying to NOT act demoralized, and hope that we end up costing GSK a little more money than they originally anticipated when we get let go in the 2nd round of layoffs. I can deal with that...Just not sure for how long...

This is exactly what I was thinking would happen.

Thanks for the info...I would much rather hear the truth than have sunshine blown up my behind.


I hope management reads this.... why did you let regions, rvp's, dsm's, keep hiring when you knew this was coming??!! We have too many people on my team, all hired in 2007...good people who probably turned down other offers for the chance to work for gsk. Such a shame...so many people and families in turmoil right now. You should be losing more sleep than we are. Instead you are looking forward to your trip to Panama next year.

Using multiple layoffs to keep overall layoff costs down is absolutely an effective and jaded way to lower costs, with the bonus of multiple layoff bumps from Wall Street.

I am sure that many people will bail if they make it past the first cut. I also anticipate a more zealous PIP/sample audit/expense audit strategy going forward to both weed out 'undesirables' and encourage voluntary departures.

From a personnel standpoint, this strategy will backfire just as it did with Pfizer. There are still many great reps with Pfizer, but most of the ones I know who have stayed are tenured and don't want to walk away from their retirement package or they are too lazy to look for something new. The good Pfizer reps who had 3-6 years experience have all left or are interviewing.

GSK will end up weeding out the reps it does not want to lose. The high performers are the most employable and they know it. If the BS becomes too much, the goals too high and the environment too hostile, the good reps will leave. Just like Pfizer, the reps who stay will be the ones who stay because they are close to retirement or they can not find anything else.

I loved working for this company before they started running everything in the field from marketing. The truth is, no one works for a company for 25 years and gets the gold watch anymore. There is only one person in corporate america looking out for you... it aint uncle G. So, look for what's best for yourself and move on. I hope to be layed off in a few weeks but my sales results have been strong so I doubt it will happen. I'll leave on my own anyway.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

I have had access to executive level discussions regarding the GSK layoffs. I am posting this information from an anonymous "business center" computer location. I won't say anymore, except that my credibility is legitimate.

I understand that rumor, speculation, and misinformation is running rampant right now through out the entire GSK organization. I feel that the lack of communication with our sales force regarding the true intentions of this company is regrettable. I personally know quite a few of the excellent employees of GSK that will be terminated.

I am dismayed that executive level management has so little regard for the employees welfare. Yes, I remember the Zantac Hawaii trips! This is why I am being honest with you.

GSK is planning a second round of layoffs that will occur immediately before second quarter earnings are announced in 2008. Projected sales forecasts for Avandia family over the next six months are dire.

The current layoff scenario has been structured to appease shareholders and Wall Street analysts.

The layoff in 2008 will be attibuted to the new management team. They hope to be given credit by the Street for taking decisive action in the face of declining revenue. This may shore up the stock price at that time.

So you ask, "Why not just lay every one off now?" There is a good answer. The GSK Senior Executives very closely studied the Pfizer layoff from last year. Do Executives from different companies talk with each other? Yes, they do. Pfizer management noted that after the layoff, a significant portion of the sales organization was demoralized. This resulted in many subsequent resignations as Pfizer sales people found new jobs on their own. This resulted in Pfizer not having to pay these people severance packages. The net: Pfizer saved a tremendous amount of money by having a layoff followed by enhanced attrition.

GSK is planning the same situation. This is why the current layoff in not as large as it really needs to be. Two smaller layoffs is more cost effective than one large one.

I have been honest with you. If you survive the current layoff, there is no guarantee you will survive the next one in June 2008. Plan for your future accordingly.

I realize on Cafe Pharma some people will bash this information as false. However, you might be surprised how many people in VERY senior management read this board. They need to know that some managers still care about the employees. The point is, do what is best for you and your family.

I have to admit, it is sad to see what has happened to this once great company. I really hope GSK can recover, but nothing is guaranteed. Best of luck to all of you.

What a class act to be upfront as you have. I used to bleed orange, now I am happy to have left such a disgrace for a company. Please tell me is it the European Ownership or is it the arrogance of leaders such as Viebacher that encourages such a low class approach to business?

O/P-thanks for the honesty!!

Gotta be real or this is a very creative writer. Thanks for the info. Sounds more and more plausible the more information I gather.

I am planning as if the end is near. Thank you for a much needed dose of reality.

Thanks for the honest information! I was worried that the layoffs would happen over several rounds, as they did at my previous place of employment.

To the OP: I appreciate you taking the time to post this information. I take everything on Cafe Pharma with a grain of salt, but the scenario you paint seems very realistic.

I hate to do exactly what GSK upper management wants me to do, but if I survive the first cut you can bet I am looking. At this point, I almost hope I get the package.

I think working for GSK next year will be absolutely miserable!

fake!

-Redneck Larry

Though I truly appreciate the honesty of the OP, it is clear that he/she works for GSK. We all know that GSK loathes those who waste time on cafe pharma. I believe that the OP was "encouraged" to place such a post on this site so that most of us will shit our pants and run, which I am planning on doing anyway. Afterall, OP clearly states that GSK is hoping to lose more reps due to attrition vs. severence/future layoffs. If OP's intent was truly out of care and consideration, I apologize. It's difficult to trust anyone that has access to "executive" meetings given the way this is all going down. Burn and turn.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Though I truly appreciate the honesty of the OP, it is clear that he/she works for GSK. We all know that GSK loathes those who waste time on cafe pharma. I believe that the OP was "encouraged" to place such a post on this site so that most of us will shit our pants and run, which I am planning on doing anyway. Afterall, OP clearly states that GSK is hoping to lose more reps due to attrition vs. severence/future layoffs. If OP's intent was truly out of care and consideration, I apologize. It's difficult to trust anyone that has access to "executive" meetings given the way this is all going down. Burn and turn.

I must agree with your comments.

The ones who don't believe this need a dose of reality. I had friends telling me this ws going to happen for months, all the while my DM denied layoffs. Believe it or not, there are people who know what is going on and do care about the people this affects and will speak up. I hate to tell you, but I got more honest info in advance (everything came true) on this website than from GSK. Believe what you want, but don't say you weren't warned.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

The ones who don't believe this need a dose of reality. I had friends telling me this ws going to happen for months, all the while my DM denied layoffs. Believe it or not, there are people who know what is going on and do care about the people this affects and will speak up. I hate to tell you, but I got more honest info in advance (everything came true) on this website than from GSK. Believe what you want, but don't say you weren't warned.

I agree. Usually you can count on the stuff that is written here.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

I agree. Usually you can count on the stuff that is written here.

No, usually you can't, smartass. But I have a feeling I know the OP of this from way back, and it sounds like it's accurate, considering how smarmy GSK has become.

We all knew this day was going to happen, don't act surprised or hate GSK for it.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Though I truly appreciate the honesty of the OP, it is clear that he/she works for GSK. We all know that GSK loathes those who waste time on cafe pharma. I believe that the OP was "encouraged" to place such a post on this site so that most of us will shit our pants and run, which I am planning on doing anyway. Afterall, OP clearly states that GSK is hoping to lose more reps due to attrition vs. severence/future layoffs. If OP's intent was truly out of care and consideration, I apologize. It's difficult to trust anyone that has access to "executive" meetings given the way this is all going down. Burn and turn.

You are planning to shit your pants and then run? Sounds a bit messy. May I suggest you pull your pants down, shit in the toilet, pull your pants up and then run.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

No, usually you can't, smartass. But I have a feeling I know the OP of this from way back, and it sounds like it's accurate, considering how smarmy GSK has become.

Especially all the bull shit you write on here.

Boys and girls...run. Pernock is in charge of this initiative and he is nothing more than a cowardly loser!

fuck

Originally Posted by Anonymous

The ones who don't believe this need a dose of reality. I had friends telling me this ws going to happen for months, all the while my DM denied layoffs. Believe it or not, there are people who know what is going on and do care about the people this affects and will speak up. I hate to tell you, but I got more honest info in advance (everything came true) on this website than from GSK. Believe what you want, but don't say you weren't warned.

DSMs were not told of the layoffs until the profits announcement to Wall Street. That same day DMs that were cut were called. RVPs new and had been planning. DMs suspected but RVPs repeatedly denied it.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

DSMs were not told of the layoffs until the profits announcement to Wall Street. That same day DMs that were cut were called. RVPs new and had been planning. DMs suspected but RVPs repeatedly denied it.

I agree -DSM's might of speculated but had no official word-Let's face it folks the writing has been on the wall -big pharma did this to itself-too many reps-we all knew at some point it was going to have to change-unfortunatley, many good reps will lose their jobs and this is not a good time to be looking in this industry-everyone is laying off. In other words its really sucks!!-Cafe Pharma has been a good outlet -good comedy -and some really good info -such as the first post-
Thanks

big pharma is the new tabacco in the litigation scheme of things... every major pharma co is faced with tons of costly litigation so I don't think anyone is safe where job security is concerned in the pharm industry. I say F 'em. I'm gona milk it for everything its worth..make them force me out...bastards.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Especially all the bull shit you write on here.

Like what bullshit? The bullshit about layoffs coming?

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Like what bullshit? The bullshit about layoffs coming?

about da BVI punk, go hallucinate some more

Take this from a DSM who has been cut...we were never told...the speculation was there, but we hoped it was simply that...I will work this out and somehow survive...I am pissed off however because of all the good reps who want and deserve to stay...the ones that should go, the losers, the ones who lost their edge and can't sell anymore...they are going to stay...that sucks for us all and especially GSK.

Thanks OP. I really do hope that I get a severance because for the last 6 months I have only stayed and not looked for another job because of the benefits that GSK offers- good insurance, car, gas, etc.. Just remember, at least 12 weeks of severance which would be 3 months plus 60 days to look for a good job. I will get much more than that which is hopeful if it happens. This job just isn't fun or exciting anylonger and if Avandia gets black box then it will be horrible to face the docs that we have called on since the launch of Avandia. I launched the drug and it has been great at times but over the past couple of years it just seems like we were always putting out fires and they were five alarm fires!

What sucks: had a job offer from two other companies. Ran into one of the managers, they just asked if I made the right decision.

Told him to fuck himself.

Anyone think upper management will have layoffs?

Originally Posted by Anonymous

about da BVI punk, go hallucinate some more

Again, I'm not cappy, shit for brains. I've never said anything about the BVI, just lots of comments over the years about how incompetent management at GSK has been. And was I right? Hmmmm, layoffs now, probably more to come halfway through next year... no, obviously I was wrong about everything, and you, of course have been right. Next you'll be responding that all is well at GSK, and these layoff rumors will go away soon, right chief? What a complete ass you make of yourself every time you touch your keyboard.

You post to me like you know me personally, or think you do. Tell you what, if you do know me personally, and want to take it outside, I'll be happy to oblige. If you know me, I'm not hard to find at all. The internet is a wonderful thing. Contact me, and you can have a shot at me. I'll even let you land the first punch, okay? Please, really. It would make my day! And here's a little tip - don't even think of coming back with a reply about how one punch is all you'll need. That only works in the movies. Really, you can trust me on that.

Just a question for the "I know Everything" group because I certainly don't- But seriously, is it better to quit before you get a severance package or let GSk fund you while you are looking for another job If they are going to fire me or lay me off I think I would just adjust my attitude until it happens and let the bastards pay me I am not as smart as some of you but Does that make any sense??

Originally Posted by Anonymous

The ones who don't believe this need a dose of reality. I had friends telling me this ws going to happen for months, all the while my DM denied layoffs. Believe it or not, there are people who know what is going on and do care about the people this affects and will speak up. I hate to tell you, but I got more honest info in advance (everything came true) on this website than from GSK. Believe what you want, but don't say you weren't warned.

I agree. some nitwits, but some postings are quite informative. My last 6 months on cafe pharma opened my eyes. And, most of what I believed has come true.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Just a question for the "I know Everything" group because I certainly don't- But seriously, is it better to quit before you get a severance package or let GSk fund you while you are looking for another job If they are going to fire me or lay me off I think I would just adjust my attitude until it happens and let the bastards pay me I am not as smart as some of you but Does that make any sense??

If you're going to go, might as well try and get the package. If you're not laid off, try to slack a bit without letting your administrative responsibilities slide, because I think you will see an enforcement of CPP guidelines like you've never seen before, and they won't be toying around with verbal warnings, written warnings and resignation by mutual agreement. If you're in violation, you'll get fired. But if your sales slip, you may be caught up in the next round of layoffs.

On the other hand, when Witty gets in, if he restructures the entire sales force, it may turn out to be a good place to work again. Unless you have to sell Avandia. That's gonna be a problem no matter what.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Just a question for the "I know Everything" group because I certainly don't- But seriously, is it better to quit before you get a severance package or let GSk fund you while you are looking for another job If they are going to fire me or lay me off I think I would just adjust my attitude until it happens and let the bastards pay me I am not as smart as some of you but Does that make any sense??

Look, but do not commit until they dump you, unless you find what you want. If they dump you, you will have more options for filing complaints, etc. They dumped me for some jackass reason, and as I was leaving the meeting, I had two messages from other companies with offers.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Look, but do not commit until they dump you, unless you find what you want. If they dump you, you will have more options for filing complaints, etc. They dumped me for some jackass reason, and as I was leaving the meeting, I had two messages from other companies with offers.

Sure you did Jackass!!!

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Look, but do not commit until they dump you, unless you find what you want. If they dump you, you will have more options for filing complaints, etc. They dumped me for some jackass reason, and as I was leaving the meeting, I had two messages from other companies with offers.

7-11 and McDonald's?

?

I was not sure what to think of this post when I first read it. However, talking to a couple of people I know at the home office........these rumors about a second lay off have been floating around.

I would say the information presented here has a fair amount of reliability.........

Originally Posted by Anonymous

I agree. some nitwits, but some postings are quite informative. My last 6 months on cafe pharma opened my eyes. And, most of what I believed has come true.

ITA! There are some dimwits here, but much of this late info has seemed to be correct. I've heard more layoffs in June of 08. How miserable will this place be to work for any survivors? It will suck bigtime and be a horrible gig.

Going forward things are going to be much worse. I have been told that...

If your call average does not amount to the criteria set by the RVP/DM = coaching letter.

If you have two consecutive bad quarters on your primary product = coaching letter.

and the scariest of all; if you do not improve on a winning practice deficiency set forth by your manager on a ride along = coaching letter. (This is where they will weed out who they do not want).

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TODAY TO MAKE YOU FEEL PROUD!

OK....enough is enough....I AM a senior leader in this company and I can tell you that the contents of the are not true.

In fact, I'd love for the original poster of this message to provide more detail. For example, what room do we meet in? Go ahead and answer. That is a simple question that will not disclose your identity. Or, please since you know the plans, please let us know the departments that will be closed in both RTP or Philly.

I simply want to remove the validity of the original post as it is not true. Thanks.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

Going forward things are going to be much worse. I have been told that...

If your call average does not amount to the criteria set by the RVP/DM = coaching letter.

If you have two consecutive bad quarters on your primary product = coaching letter.

and the scariest of all; if you do not improve on a winning practice deficiency set forth by your manager on a ride along = coaching letter. (This is where they will weed out who they do not want).

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TODAY TO MAKE YOU FEEL PROUD!

I'm not understanding your complaint? The company wants employees to MEET expectations and if they don't they want DM's to provide coaching memos.

Call average below expectations - work harder

two bad quarters in a row - sell more. Most SALES organizations place you on warning if you don't meet goal for two quarters in a row. If you don't think it's within your control then why do we need YOU. Sure it's a lot of pressure but if you can't handle it you might want to consider leaving sales.

Improve upon your abilities - How can you improve if you receive feedback and just keep doing the same shit over and over? DM's been telling you to use a reprint during your last work trip and today you didn't use it once. What do you think should happen?

You people are only complaining because NOW you feel you are going to be held responsible when it should have been this way all along.

Originally Posted by Anonymous

OK....enough is enough....I AM a senior leader in this company and I can tell you that the contents of the are not true.

In fact, I'd love for the original poster of this message to provide more detail. For example, what room do we meet in? Go ahead and answer. That is a simple question that will not disclose your identity. Or, please since you know the plans, please let us know the departments that will be closed in both RTP or Philly.

I simply want to remove the validity of the original post as it is not true. Thanks.

Tough guy. You are not going to remove the cloud of 2008 layoffs in anyone's mind until they get some products approved. Make something happen to make us proud (such as eliminated the ridiculous 3 wks of waiting - you have effectively killed morale out in the field), and we might want to work for this company again.

I am not try to be a "tough guy." I am trying to expose a fraud.

Also, thanks for not telling me about a typo or spelling error too. That seems to be great sport on these threads.

There are no plans for further reductions. Of course, they can happen. They can happen any time based on generics, lack of approvals or lost revenue in current brands.

We need approvals. Yes. You are correct.

If you are really in "senior management" GO FUCK YOURSELF!!!!!!! What are you doing on cafepharma? Figure out how to fix this so-called company!!! The "senior management" of this company is a joke. And you are right...no one pointed out you mis-spellings because it is expected and not suprising that something like that comes from "senior management." I hope you get fired 2!!!!

"How can you improve if you receive feedback and just keep doing the same shit over and over? DM's been telling you to use a reprint during your last work trip and today you didn't use it once. What do you think should happen?

"You people are only complaining because NOW you feel you are going to be held responsible when it should have been this way all along."

What we are protesting is the unfair and unequal enforcement of these policies, especially the subjective measurements of Winning Practices.
OK, you've been advised to use a reprint. So how many times are you expected to utilize it in one day? Surely anyone knows that it won't be appropriate in EVERY situation--however, I know a rep who lost her job because (and here's what her termination letter stated "While your actions have improved, you have not used a reprint with EVERY doctor on EVERY call."
If you're on the list to be canned, you haven't got much hope to avoid it!!

The angry post from the hateful person is exactly why many reps are treated like low-level employees.

That ends the chance for any real conversation on here. It is not worth reaching out. Thanks.