[bravetraveler]

Usually fed down the chain of command. Execs tell managers who tell their people, HR is usually involved too. If the managers are also involved, it's a bigger affair

It's rarely a surprise in my experience (eg: new owners/investors are sniffing around for months). Announcement of the acquisition/investment is often made, mentioning that certain business units will need to be 'optimized' or some other vague term.