I’ve watched with sadness and concern as Cargill laid off 8,000 employees globally. While restructuring may be part of business realities, the way it unfolded speaks volumes about a deeper shift — one where people, once at the heart of company culture, now feel pushed to the periphery.
I spent over a decade working across regions and businesses, proud to be part of a company that placed values and people first. Today, I hear from those who remain — brilliant professionals carrying increased workloads, silent anxiety, and a sense of disconnection. The psychological toll is real, yet rarely acknowledged.
And now, more subtle signals are emerging. Employees are being told not to speak about "sustainability commitments" — only "goals." It's a fascinating, and troubling, reflection of how companies may shift language and posture based on political tides. This kind of opportunism not only dilutes the purpose behind ESG but also undermines the people working tirelessly to honor it.
Culture is not built by mission statements — it lives in how people are treated when things get difficult. It's heartbreaking to see a company with strong values shake the morale of its workforce so profoundly.
Sustainability is not just environmental — it’s emotional, organizational, human.
Let’s talk about how we rebuild trust, care, and integrity. For the sake of every person still showing up, silently wondering if they matter.