Cisco Layoffs in Canada: August 2025 Update + Severance Rights
Cisco’s Restructuring and Layoff Announcements
Over the last several years, Cisco Systems has been undergoing repeated global restructurings, as the company shifts focus toward AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise networking.
The result? Thousands of jobs cut across multiple rounds, including:
- Nearly 6,000 jobs eliminated in September 2024 (7% of global workforce)
- 4,000 positions cut in February 2024
- Additional job loses in 2023
Affected departments include product management, engineering, UX, Meraki, Webex/Collaboration, wireless, and security. While some cuts have been publicly confirmed, others — especially in Canada — have happened quietly, without formal announcements.
Cisco has not confirmed large-scale layoffs in Canada, but our firm has already heard from numerous non-unionized employees affected by the most recent wave of cuts. Even if you weren’t handed a pink slip, you may still experience the ripple effects through:
- Role eliminations or mergers
- Pay cuts or lost bonuses
- Title changes that reduce authority
- Pressure to accept a “new position” or resign altogether
If you’re a non-unionized Cisco employee in Canada and you’ve been let go, pushed out, or demoted, you may be entitled to as much as 24 months’ pay as severance.
This guide explains what’s happening at Cisco, your legal rights as a Canadian employee, and how Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has helped others in your position secure the compensation they’re owed.
Cisco Layoff History
Here’s a look at how the company’s restructuring has unfolded over the last few years:
| Date | Layoff Summary | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cisco reportedly lays off Canadian and global staff across several departments despite strong Q4. | Details | |
| 5,900 jobs cut in its second round of mass layoffs in 2024. | Details | |
| 4,000 positions (5% of workforce) slashed to “align to future growth.” | Details | |
| Over 500 roles eliminated in California, including San Jose and Milpitas. | Details |
WATCH: Cisco Layoff Rights Explained
Severance Pay After a Cisco Layoff
If you’re a non-unionized employee and your job ends at Cisco — whether the company calls it a layoff, restructuring, or termination — you are owed severance pay.
Depending on your role, length of service, age, and the job market, this could be as much as 24 months’ pay. Severance must include:
- Salary
- Bonuses and commissions
- Benefits and pension contributions
- Stock options or incentive pay
Constructive Dismissal Risks at Cisco
You don’t have to be handed a pink slip for your employment to legally end. A constructive dismissal in Canada happens when your employer changes your job in a big way without your agreement — leaving you no real choice but to leave.
In a Cisco restructuring, this could mean:
- Losing managerial duties or direct reports
- Being moved into a completely different role
- Seeing a major cut to your pay, bonuses, or benefits
- Being told you must relocate to another city or province
Even if Cisco calls it a “new opportunity” or “temporary measure,” these changes potentially entitle you to full severance.
How We’ve Helped in Similar Situations
At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve worked with employees in tech, telecom, and enterprise networking companies — including those going through global restructuing like Cisco — to make sure they leave with the compensation they deserve.
Our understanding of tech industry pay structures, including stock options, RSUs, ESPPS, and performance bonuses, allows us to quickly identify when an employee is being offered far less than what the law requires. When this happens, you can claim wrongful dismissal with our help.
FAQs About Cisco Layoffs & Severance
👉 Can My Employment Contract Limit My Severance?
👉 Are Temporary Layoffs Allowed?
👉 Do Contractors Qualify For Severance?
👉 How Long Do I Have to Claim Severance?
👉 Can I Be Let Go After Maternity or Disability Leave?
Proven Results from Samfiru Tumarkin LLP
More than 99% of employment law matters are settled in the first few weeks or during mediation. However, when court is necessary, we have the expertise to deliver results — often with legal fees covered by the employer.
33 Years, a Payout to Sink Your Teeth Into
After decades of loyal service at an Ottawa dental practice, a hygienist refused unfair new terms following a sale. With Samfiru Tumarkin LLP by her side, she secured 24 months’ severance, benefits, and legal costs—proof that dedication deserves justice.
Short Stint, Huge Statement
In Marques v. Delmar International, a high-level executive was shown the door after just eight months—but didn’t leave empty-handed. Thanks to Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, they secured a four-month severance, showing even short-term employees deserve big wins.
Big Win for Short-service Executive
In Perretta v. Rand A Technology Corporation, a sales professional refused to settle for less when her employer tried to tie severance to an unfair release. With Samfiru Tumarkin LLP on her side, she walked away with six months of severance—a bold win.
Lost Your Job at Cisco? Get Legal Help Now
If Cisco fires, lays off, or changes your job, don’t sign anything before talking to an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.
Our employment lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and BC have helped many non-unionized employees — including those working for Cisco — understand their rights, challenge severance packages, and get what they’re owed.
- 👥 Over 50,000 clients helped across Canada
- 💰 Secured millions in severance and settlements
- ⚖️ No win, no fee — you don’t pay unless we win*
- ⭐ 3,000 5-star Google reviews across Canada (4.7 average)
- 🏆 Recognized as one of Canada’s Best Law Firms by The Globe and Mail
* Conditions apply. Not all cases qualify.
📞 Call us at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.
You must consult your union representative regarding termination, severance pay, and other workplace issues. By law, employment lawyers can’t represent unionized employees with these issues. They’re governed by your collective bargaining agreement.
Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is not specific to any one company and should not be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.
About the Author
Lior Samfiru
Lior Samfiru is a Founding Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and the Practice Leader of the firm’s Labour & Employment Law Group. Known for his advocacy and success representing both employees and employers, Lior exclusively serves clients in Ontario, where his extensive experience has made him one of Canada’s most sought-after employment lawyers.
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