Paramount Consolidation of U.S. TV and Streaming Distribution Teams Results in Staff Cuts

As a seasoned movie buff with decades of industry experience under my belt, I find myself both intrigued and saddened by the recent developments at Paramount Global. The upcoming merger with Skydance Media promises an exciting new chapter for this venerable media conglomerate, but the restructuring measures being taken seem to indicate a bit of turbulence before smoother waters.

Paramount Global is planning further organizational changes as it prepares for its anticipated merger with Skydance Media, set to take place in 2025.

In the memo sent out on Wednesday, Ray Hopkins, President of U.S. Networks Distribution at Paramount, announced the merging of teams responsible for distributing Paramount+ and Pluto TV streaming services with those handling U.S. TV networks distribution. This move aims to establish a single, streamlined team that is strategically positioned to drive growth across all platforms within our portfolio.

The action is expected to lead to a significant number of job reductions, as stated in the memo from Hopkins. A representative from Paramount was unwilling to disclose further information.

Hopkins stated that this adjustment in strategy aligns more closely with the present market situation and prepares our team, business, and partners for ongoing success as we strive to meet our objectives by 2025 and beyond. Unfortunately, this means we must say goodbye to some skilled coworkers and friends. Although it was a tough call, these changes weren’t made lightly, and we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the affected team members for their invaluable contributions to our organization and company.

Come October, my responsibilities at Paramount were broadened to encompass streaming partnerships and distribution. This shift in role marks the departure of Jeff Shultz, who served as both Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Business Development Officer for Paramount Global’s streaming division, by the end of 2024. Now, the streaming distribution and business development team falls under my supervision.

Hopkins oversees Paramount’s domestic content distribution strategy, partnerships and agreements with video providers and digital platforms across broadcast, cable and streaming brands, including CBS, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount+ and Pluto TV. The exec also is responsible for all distribution for the CBS Television Network to more than 40 affiliated TV station groups across the country.

Over the summer and autumn season, Paramount has taken steps to reduce expenses by conducting layoffs and restructuring, which aims to eliminate around 15% of its U.S.-based workforce. This decision impacts approximately 2,000 employees. These reductions are part of a broader strategy to minimize annual costs by $500 million.

The financial goals for reducing expenses set by the Skydance team have grown more ambitious. Jeff Shell, who will serve as president of the merged company, has stated that Skydance, working alongside consulting firm Bain & Co., aims to realize a minimum of $2 billion in annual cost savings when combined with Paramount.

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2024-12-12 01:46