Bayer Layoffs Top 12,000 with More Cuts Expected Amid Ongoing Restructuring
Bayer has laid off approximately 12,000 employees globally since initiating a restructuring in July 2023.
Employee headcount dropped from about 101,369 at the end of 2022 to 89,556 as of Q2 2025, marking a 7.3% reduction.
Most eliminated roles have been managerial as part of a company-wide strategy to reduce bureaucracy and increase operational efficiency.
CEO Bill Anderson announced on August 6, 2025, that further layoffs are anticipated over the next 18 months.
Senior leadership teams have been consolidated in both the pharmaceutical and crop science divisions in tandem with broader staff reductions.
Bayer's ongoing cuts are part of a strategy to save €500 million in operating expenses in 2025 and €2 billion by 2026.
The restructuring comes amid fluctuating sales and substantial company debt (€34.5 billion as of early 2024).
German labor laws mean U.S. layoffs are expected to finish by the end of 2025; German staff reductions may extend to 2026.
The changes are intended to make Bayer “leaner, faster and more productive,” according to company statements.
Sources:
BioSpace (Aug 6, 2025; May 13, 2025), Fierce Pharma (Aug 6, 2024), International Biopharma (May 16, 2024).