Q&A on the mass layoffs at Novo Nordisk

What happens if I’m laid off?

You are always entitled to salary during your notice period (1–6 months plus the rest of the month, according to the Salaried Employees Act). In a Q&A session on 12th of September, Novo Nordisk presented a number of terms including:

• Garden leave after handover, without deduction if you start a new job
• Special severance pay of 1–6 months’ salary
• Special conditions for pregnant employees and those on parental leave
• Clarification regarding potential bonus and stock options

Note: These terms are only a starting point for the agreements. Nothing is final for you until an individual agreement is signed.

I’m pregnant and feel particularly vulnerable – should I be worried?

As a parent-to-be, it’s natural to feel vulnerable. Novo’s Q&A includes a section on pregnant employees and parents on leave. It stresses that Novo must be informed of your pregnancy. The legal protection under the Equal Treatment Act depends on your employer knowing that a child is on the way. So if you haven’t told your manager yet, do so immediately – and in writing.

I’m pregnant/on parental leave – are there special conditions for me?

Novo Nordisk’s package specifies that the notice period for pregnant women and women on maternity leave begins only when the child turns six months old. This means timelines differ significantly: An employee who is newly pregnant will have time to plan. A woman on leave with a five-month-old baby will benefit much less from these special terms.

What does voluntary resignation mean?

Voluntary resignation means you choose to leave. Management can, however, reject your request. Be aware that voluntary resignation may affect your right to unemployment benefits if you are seen as responsible for your own resignation. We cannot predict how your unemployment insurance fund (a-kasse) will judge this. 

Do not ask for voluntary resignation if you have work permit or your residency depends on your work, as it might affect your access to a new permit.

I just want to move on – what should I do?

We understand. But usually the terms are better if you are laid off than if you resign or quickly take a new job. Novo Nordisk’s management has said the process will not drag out – so clarification should come soon.

Can my employer take away my remote work agreement?

Yes, but not overnight. A change of workplace can be significant, and if it is, it must be given with your notice period. Commuting time is assessed case by case. We know remote work is vital for work-life balance, and we are following developments closely.

What is PDA, and how do I qualify?

PDA is Pharmadanmark’s special support-scheme. If you are laid off, you may receive a supplement to unemployment benefits of DKK 13,468/month for up to 12 months if:

• You have been a member of Pharmadanmark for at least 2 years
• You have had 1 year of relevant work within the last 24 months

Read more about PDA.

Can I join Pharmadanmark now and still get help if I’m laid off?

Yes – but you must join before you receive a notice of termination. It works like insurance: you can’t insure yourself retroactively.

Can criticism on social media have consequences?

Yes, it can. You are still employed and bound by a duty of loyalty. Avoid posting anything you may regret later. Remember that anonymity is only rarely truly anonymous. If you’ve already posted something unfortunate, delete it as quickly as possible.

What can Pharmadanmark offer you right now?

• Events: We host meetings and webinars to support you in your working life. Find all our events.
• Legal advice
• Career counseling

We know uncertainty can feel overwhelming, and many are experiencing stress and worry. Remember, we are here to support you – with legal answers, practical advice, and as a sparring partner whenever you need it.