BREAKING NEWS: Nearly 400 jobs at risk as Novartis consults on closure of Horsham site

The company, still one of the town’s largest employers, said this morning that it will work closely with employees through this ‘difficult time’.

A spokesperson from Novartis said: “Novartis UK is today announcing that it will initiate consultation on proposals to close its Horsham site in West Sussex. These proposals will impact up to 371 roles, but will be subject to an employee consultation process and final UK board approval.

“We understand that this will be a difficult time for potentially affected employees, their families and the wider Horsham community given the links the company has in the area. We will work closely with everyone affected, including our associates, contractors, suppliers and local stakeholder groups, to make the process as straightforward and smooth as possible.

“This potential restructure of operations at the Horsham site is the result of a global review of research operations and realignment of our other global R&D sites. The proposals are part of the company’s ongoing efforts to align resources to better serve patients and customers in a challenging healthcare marketplace.

“As a company, Novartis continually evaluates its resource allocation to ensure that the organisation is highly flexible and able to proactively adapt to external challenges to best meet the needs of patients and customers. Our pipeline and future potential growth are strong.

“However, we face challenges in today’s industry. Our unified focus on growth, innovation and productivity will help us meet these challenges today and tomorrow, for the benefit of patients and customers worldwide.”

Are you affected by proposed changes? Email [email protected] or call 01403 751267.

For the full story see this Thursday’s West Sussex County Times.