What’s going on at Cenovus Energy?
Cenovus Energy (Cenovus) is trimming its workforce as part of a “continued focus on being more competitive across all areas of our business.”
“We have reviewed some team structures, which has led to some employees and contractors leaving the company,” the Calgary-based energy giant told CTV News.
While the company wouldn’t comment on the exact number of jobs being cut, at least 50 people were let go at one of its facilities in Alberta — requiring them to inform the provincial government.
“Cenovus has indicated that severance, extended benefits, and career counselling services are being provided to support impacted qualifying employees,” the province said.
The bombshell update comes as Cenovus prepares to release first-quarter results and host its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders on May 8.
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• Expedia Group trimming workforce by 3%, part of 2025 restructuring
Next steps for Cenovus Energy staff
If you’re fired or let go from Cenovus, understanding your legal rights is crucial.
Non-unionized employees in Canada’s energy industry are entitled to severance pay. The amount you’re owed is based on a variety of factors, including your role, tenure, age, and ability to find similar work.
WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru delves into severance pay on an episode of the Employment Law Show.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Compensation: Severance packages, which can be as much as 24 months’ pay, may include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation. Use our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator to better understand your entitlements.
- Deadlines: You generally have up to two years from the date of your termination to review and negotiate severance offers.
- Action steps: Consult an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package is fair and aligns with Canadian employment laws.
Major employers slashing staff
Cenovus isn’t the only major employer cutting jobs in 2025.
Other big names, including Meta, Morningstar, OpenText, Intel, Infosys, Google, Alstom, Microsoft, S&S Activewear, Siemens, HPE, Wayfair, MLSE, Disney, Autodesk, JPMorgan, and Vale, have also pulled out the axe.
SEE ALSO
• Estée Lauder reportedly cut all Canadian staff in Hudson’s Bay stores
• Canada’s immigration department slashing workforce by 25%
• Where are layoffs happening in Canada?
Lost your job? Contact us
If you’ve been fired or let go from Cenovus, the experienced employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help.
Our lawyers in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals resolve their workplace issues.
Call us today at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.
⛔ UNIONIZED? You must consult your union representative regarding termination, severance pay, and other workplace issues. These matters are governed by your collective bargaining agreement. By law, employment lawyers can’t represent unionized employees with these issues.
