Staff Layoffs

Staff Layoff Watch: Jenner Block Has More Bad News For Chicago

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It’s been a rough week in Chicago. Sidley laid off 229 people, something is happening at Katten today, and we have received confirmation that Jenner & Block has had to lay off 34 staffers.

Above the Law obtained this official statement from Jenner’s managing partner, Susan Levy:

Given the efficiency and productivity gains from these various sources, Jenner & Block is eliminating 34 support staff positions in our Chicago and Washington, D.C. offices. No attorneys are affected by these changes. We are offering generous severance packages to the individuals affected as well as outplacement services.

That is not a huge number compared to what has been going around. But it’s still pretty tough to be replaced by productivity gains during these difficult economic times.

Good luck to those let go from Jenner today. Read the full statement after the jump.


JENNER & BLOCK — STATEMENT — LAYOFFS

Jenner & Block finished 2008 solidly ahead of 2007 and we anticipate that our strong performance in 2009 will continue. Like all well-managed law firms, Jenner & Block continually assesses operations to better align staffing and expenses. Increasingly, price-sensitivity in the marketplace demands that we more closely align the firm’s cost structure to best serve clients. In addition, advances in technology and more collaborative approaches to staff support offer Jenner & Block additional opportunities to be cost competitive. For example, teaming secretarial support for associate groups has significantly improved efficiency and is providing better quality and more focused support for associates. Similarly, our on-line training programs have reduced the need for trainers for secretaries.

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Given the efficiency and productivity gains from these various sources, Jenner & Block is eliminating 34 support staff positions in our Chicago and Washington, D.C. offices. No attorneys are affected by these changes. We are offering generous severance packages to the individuals affected as well as outplacement services.

While the number of positions being eliminated is small in comparison to recently announced cutbacks at many law firms, Jenner & Block is a values-based firm and we appreciate the dedication and many contributions of the individuals who are leaving. We wish each departing individual future success.

Earlier: Prior ATL coverage of staff layoffs

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