Chairman Offering Reduced Salary To Relocate Employee Back From Remote Location

I have been in this Group of Companies for the last 3 years and 4 months. I worked in different departments like Sales & Marketing Coordinator, Logistics Controller, Public Relations Officer, HR & Admin Executive, etc.

The company sent me to its regional office in an East African country to establish an administration office around 5 months ago with a promise that I would be called back within 30-40 days. After completing my task, I requested them to call me back, but there has been no response yet.

Recently, in response to my email to our Chairman, our Group's admin manager called me and said, "The Chairman will call you back if you agree to work with a reduced salary of 25%. However, you will be promoted to the position of 'Logistics Controller' within the group of companies." He also mentioned that the current Logistics Controller, who is receiving a salary 70% higher than mine, will be terminated.

I am unsure of what to do in this situation. How should I handle this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated as I am expecting another call today.

Hi Mamu,

I suggest that if you want to come back, consider taking a 25% pay cut initially. You can return and reassess the situation. If you are still not satisfied, remember there are plenty of opportunities available to you. Your experience in handling diverse roles can be beneficial when transitioning to new positions that offer a variety of responsibilities.

I am having trouble understanding the last part about the offer of a 70% increase in pay for the role of Logistics Controller, but the role itself will be terminated. Could you please provide clarification to assist in providing a more informed response? As far as I can interpret, it appears that they may be hinting at wanting you to stay by mentioning the possibility of termination.

I hope this helps in understanding the situation better.

...not able to understand the last part - 70% more pay as Logistics Controller but the role will be terminated - kindly clarify to help respond better. From what I understand, it seems they want you to stay back (is it a threat about termination?)[/QUOTE]

Thank you very much, Ramesh... I get more self-confidence after reading your reply, thanks again!! What I tried to explain in the last part is.... There is a 'Logistic Controller' for our group Head office. He is taking 70% more salary than me. What the company is thinking is to terminate him and put me in the same position. At the same time, my salary is reduced too!! A double play by the company!

The logistics guy may not fit into the management scheme of things - not good or paid high, which the company feels is unwarranted. Since you have performed in several roles and they are satisfied with you, they are willing to bring you back.

First thing is to come back, then negotiate successfully. You are doing 3-4 roles but being paid for one - ask them for a higher pay once you are back. Don't talk tough, just tell the management that you are happy to be back and once there you can renegotiate it. There's always the last option of quitting and moving on.

Actually, they want me to continue in Africa; if I leave here, the admin department will be in trouble. But I wrote directly to the Chairman to call me back. The way I wrote, he couldn't refuse, I think.

You don't know the difficulty of managing the administration and public relations department in an African country. Never, never take such an offer!!!

Hi Mammu,

I understand the problems in Africa from regularly watching BBC News, where in-depth analysis is done. I suggest that you accept the role you have been offered in the Middle East (with a 25% salary cut) rather than in Africa. The situation in Africa is a mess that will require herculean efforts to sort out. That's what I said when I asked you to consider looking at alternatives if things don't work out.

You are thinking right, Mr. Ramesh. The import and export of the company have decreased to 50-60% after November 2008. So the company is questioning why they should maintain the same salary for this position even after a year.

I think they should have discussed this with the current Logistics Controller. He might have rejected the reduction. The next option within the company would be me. They are currently negotiating with me as well.

Anyway, I agree with your last point. I have already posted my resume on 2-3 sites, and many companies are considering it. I am confident!

Hello Mammu,

I have been going through the conversation between you and Mr. Ramesh. I must say, what you both have discussed makes sense. Don't try to negotiate or talk terms; just analyze your role in the company. When you reach the parent location, go talk to your immediate supervisor or the chairman.

If you believe they cannot easily replace you, then I am confident you can succeed in the negotiation. Also, remember to keep your resume updated on job portals.

All the best! ;)

Dear Mammu,

I guess by now, that you have received many suggestions from members and have several options.

But do spare a thought for the Logistic Controller back home, who is getting 70% more than you. Your management can reduce his salary, but they are intent on removing him because they can get you cheaper. Moreover, you will suffer a 25% pay cut (the company will also suffer because they won't get a suitable replacement for you).

Take a moment to check your heart; if you have any feelings about the Logistic Controller, then do not accept the offer. Secondly, why don't you consider joining a company that does not believe in such cut-throat policies? Or do you, like so many others, believe in the dog-eat-dog philosophy?

It's your decision, it's your call.

Warm regards.

Dear Mammoo & Ramesh,

Nice to hear about your transactions, and it will provide a good understanding of the HR role in India and at the international level. You both are correct, but one thing I want to share with you is that only the situation plays a vital role here. If the situation changes, everything will change. Currently, we are experiencing changes at a global level. In my opinion, Mr. Mammoo, please discuss directly with the Chairman and consider returning to India. If the situation improves, you may receive a higher salary in both countries.

All the best.

R. Palaniswamy