Hartford-based health benefits giant Aetna said that it would cut about two percent of its 30,000 workforce or 650 positions as part of a new streamlining effort.
The layoffs will include nearly 200 employees in management positions.
“These actions are focused squarely on our future and making certain that Aetna is well positioned to take advantage of new opportunities with an efficient and flexible customer-focused operating structure,” said Chairman and CEO Ronald A. Williams.
Chief Financial Officer Alan M. Bennett said that Aetna has been taking actions over the past several years to operate more efficiently, while at the same time investing heavily in new products, technology and customer service.
Bennett said the company is pleased with its financial performance for 2006, but believes that the layoffs are necessary to remain competitive. “Although this is very difficult for those affected, these actions will help assure our continuing long-term success in the marketplace,” he said.
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
As Parasite Spawned Chaos, Taylor Farms Slow-Walked Response 
eBay Settles Couple’s Harassment, Stalking Claims for $55.7 Million 
Zurich CEO Says Staff Let Go as Regulator Finma Imposes Partial Sales Ban 
Q2 Global Commercial Insurance Rates Keep Dropping, Except for US Casualty From This Issue
