Shell cuts 90 onshore support jobs in UK. Offshore jobs unaffected

Shell is set to cut 90 onshore jobs in the UK supporting its North Sea operations citing a need to “ensure long-term sustainability,” of its UK North Sea business.

Shell informed the workers at Aberdeen Townhall meeting on Thursday.

Speaking at the meeting, Steve Phimister, Vice President Upstream UK & Ireland, said: “We intend to reduce the size of the organisation by approximately 90 onshore positions by the end of 2017. Offshore roles will not be impacted by this decision.

“Our aim is to ensure our organisation is appropriate to support our drive to become the most competitive and resilient oil and gas business in the UK Continental Shelf…. we are committed to the UK North Sea and see considerable future value and opportunity; we remain a significant employer, and aim to continue to invest significantly in the North Sea in the coming years.”

Shell has earlier this year announced the sale of UK North Sea assets to Chrysaor for a total of up to $3.8bn, including an initial consideration of $3.0bn. The deal is subject to partner and regulatory approval, with completion expected in the second half of 2017.

The oil giant has clarified that these job cuts are not specifically related to the Chrysaor divestment announcement. They are associated with efforts to ensure Shell operates a sustainable and competitive business in the North Sea post-divestment, Shell reiterated.

“Shell is and will remain one of the largest producers in the basin. The impacted roles cover a range of positions across Shell’s onshore support organisation,” Shell said.