Paramount Global has commenced staff layoffs to reduce its U.S.-based workforce by 15%.
The first of three stages of staff reductions is beginning today, with 90% of the total cuts to be completed by the end of September.
Those cuts do not directly impact staffing at Network 10 / Paramount Australia New Zealand but there have also been exploration at selling “certain Paramount-owned assets” to help pay down debt.
Last February, the company let go of 3% of employees worldwide.
George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy and Brian Robbins, the three members of the Office of the CEO, issued a staff notice:
Hi Everyone,
In June, we laid out our Strategic Plan to return Paramount to profitable growth, which includes streamlining the organization and cutting costs by $500 million on an annualized basis. As we continue to advance our plan, we announced on our earnings call last week that we will be reducing our US-based workforce by approximately 15%, focusing on redundant functions and streamlining corporate teams.
This process will take place in three phases, starting today and continuing through the end of the year. We expect 90% of these actions to be complete by the end of September.
We know that having to part ways with teammates whose contributions have been instrumental to our success is incredibly hard. In partnership with our HR leaders, we are committed to providing support to employees transitioning on from Paramount and to our teams who will need to adapt to these changes. During this time, we ask that everyone please be mindful of how this news may affect your colleagues and offer support to those who need it.
The industry continues to evolve, and Paramount is at an inflection point where changes must be made to strengthen our business. And while these actions are often difficult, we are confident in our direction forward. We understand that you may have questions about next steps, and while we may not be able to provide all the answers at this time, we will continue to update you on our progress.
We remain ever grateful for your hard work in delivering results for our audiences and communities.
Best,
George, Chris & Brian
Skydance Media is poised to take control of Paramount in a merger to be completed by the first part of 2025.
Source: Deadline
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