Pharma giant with large Mass. footprint to slash 9,000 jobs globally

Published: Friday, September 12, 2025 at 5:12 pm

Pharma Giant Novo Nordisk to Cut 9,000 Jobs Globally

Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk, a major player in diabetes and obesity treatments, has announced a significant global restructuring plan that will result in the reduction of its workforce by 9,000 employees by the end of 2026. The company, known for its GLP-1 medications, cited organizational complexity and rising costs as key drivers behind the decision.

While the company declined to provide specific figures for its operations in the Boston area, a spokesperson confirmed that the restructuring is a global initiative and that all Novo Nordisk sites will be impacted differently. Novo Nordisk has a significant presence in Massachusetts, including its US Research & Development Hub, and currently employs 450 people in the state. The company had previously announced plans to expand its presence in the greater Boston area, anticipating the addition of over 200 jobs. The spokesperson did not provide an updated employee count but stated that all major ongoing projects are expected to continue.

The workforce reduction will primarily affect positions in Denmark, where approximately 5,000 of the 78,400 global positions are expected to be eliminated. Novo Nordisk aims to reallocate resources towards its core strengths: science, commercial capabilities, and manufacturing expansion. The company is focusing on growth opportunities in diabetes and obesity, where it has recently observed a slowdown. The company aims to reach millions of people who remain untreated. The restructuring is expected to generate over $1.25 billion in annualized savings by the end of 2026.

According to CEO Mike Doustdar, the company's markets are evolving, particularly in the competitive and consumer-driven obesity sector. The restructuring aims to instill a performance-based culture, deploy resources more effectively, and prioritize investment.

BNN's Perspective:

While job losses are always concerning, Novo Nordisk's strategic shift appears to be a necessary adaptation to a changing market. The focus on streamlining operations and reinvesting in core areas could position the company for long-term success in the crucial fields of diabetes and obesity treatment. The company's commitment to continuing major projects in the Boston area is a positive sign for the region's biotech sector.

Keywords: Novo Nordisk, job cuts, restructuring, diabetes, obesity, pharmaceutical, layoffs, Boston, Massachusetts, GLP-1, healthcare, cost savings, Mike Doustdar, global, workforce reduction

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