Is this a “suitable” alternative?

ncar1990

Hi, my company is currently undergoing a restructuring. I moved roles from managerial to reporting 4 months ago but due to the financial situation the company is in my current role was removed (redundant) and I was offered my old position back.

I expressed some concerns about taking my old role back but said I would genuinely consider it. I was about to accept this a couple of days later but was then told I was unsuitable for the role and was instead offered a demoted position but would retain some of my current position benefits and responsibilities. Following another meeting I was told I would not retain my current benefits and responsibilities, and would now have to report to a peer of similar position due to my “performance”. I have nothing against this person but for the last 2 years we have been of the same or similar level and it’s quite insulting that I would now be reporting to them.

Prior to this no discussion had been had on my performance, nor has there been any performance review or appraisals for nearly 2 years. No reviews prior to this indicate poor performance either.

I am probably over-reacting but it is tough for me to accept a demotion and for the offer to keep changing without clarity. 

I suppose my question is would this still count as redundancy? I have struggled to find clear information to say if a demotion would count as a suitable or unsuitable alternative. My biggest concern is that my CV will clearly show the demotion going forward if I accept this role, and if I’m unhappy now then I’m not sure it’s worth staying.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

balbs

Assumin you have two years service potentially you have grounds to resign and claim constructive dismissal... I say potentially very carefully however as its not something you should do lightly as it is hard to achieve.  Your employer doesnt seem to be following any sort of structured process about this; offering one post, withdrawing it, bringing up out of the blue allegations of poor performance, and this makes me suspect they just want you out - hard to swallow perhaps but it happens all too often. 

Actions...

1. Review what processes your employer does have

2. Ring ACAS helpline - they are very useful.

3. Look up a specialist employment solicitor in your area and have an initial chat with them - they will do this free and get some basics in place.

4. Do you have legal expenses insurance? - typically tacked on to your house insurance or motor.  This can be used if you do need to engage a solicitor - at first they will want you to use their own, but later you have the right to choose your own.

5. Disengage your emotions from the situation - difficult I know but it does help.

At the end of the day you also have to ask yourself if you really want to work for an employer who treats you this way.