July 03--Allstate cut an unspecified number of information technology jobs, including ones in its Northbrook headquarters, sources said.
Allstate "continuously reviews its operations to identify opportunities to improve business performance," Laura Strykowski, a spokeswoman for the home and auto insurer, confirmed Thursday. "As a result of a recent review, positions have been eliminated in some of Allstate's technology areas."
Eligible employees may apply for other jobs within the company, she said.
In its first-quarter earnings announcement, Allstate said it was "building a more effective and efficient operating model by simplifying technology platforms, implementing continuous improvement processes and optimizing the worldwide deployment of resources." It took a $4 million restructuring charge in the first quarter. Such restructurings typically involve programs, including layoffs, to reduce expenses over the long term.
In 2013, Allstate closed a call center in Woodridge, putting nearly 350 people out of work.
Jobs have grown elsewhere, however. Allstate's technology unit in Bangalore, India, grew to 600 workers in 2013, according to a company report last year.
byerak@tribpub.com
