CBS NEWS CUTS 6% OF STAFF AMID PUSH TO ADAPT TO CHANGING MEDIA LANDSCAPE
As part of a wider restructuring, CBS News has announced laying off about 6% of its workforce as Bari Weiss and Tom Cibrowski say “It’s no secret that the news business is changing radically, and that we need to change along with it,”
The cuts, which affect dozens of employees, come as the US broadcaster seeks to reposition itself in response to shifts in how audiences consume news.
In a memo to staff, the executives said the organisation must evolve to remain competitive, pointing to growth opportunities on new platforms and changing audience habits.
“That means some parts of our newsroom must get smaller to make room for the things we must build,” they wrote.
The move is the second round of layoffs since David Ellison took control of parent company Paramount Global last year.
About an hour after the initial announcement, staff were told in a separate memo that CBS News Radio will close on 22 May. Executives cited “challenging economic realities” and changes in radio programming strategies.
The decision reflects broader pressures facing traditional media organisations, many of which are cutting costs while investing in digital operations as audiences shift away from linear television and radio.
Bari Weiss, who joined the network in October, has been leading efforts to reshape the newsroom. Reports suggest she identified outdated systems and resistance to change within parts of the organisation.
Staff affected by the layoffs are expected to be notified, with the company saying it will treat employees “with care and respect” during the process.
Further changes are anticipated in the coming months as CBS News continues its transition towards a more digital-focused model.



