Walt Disney’s ABC News fired several senior executives on Thursday because it restructures its newsroom, two sources confirmed.
The cuts are a part of Disney’s previously announced plan to chop 7,000 jobs across the corporate because it seeks to regulate costs and streamline operations.
The layoffs began this week, affecting other elements of Disney’s business, including its Marvel Entertainment division, television production and people working on next-gen storytelling initiatives.
ABC News CEO Kim Godwin announced the downsizing and restructuring in a staff memo seen by Reuters.
Over time, roughly 50 jobs will likely be cut, including vacancies.
“While these actions are never easy, they’re a essential step to make sure now we have a solid foundation for the years ahead as we chart a sustainable, growth-oriented path for the whole organization,” Godwin wrote.
Amongst those that lost their jobs in consequence of the restructuring were Wendy Fisher, senior vp of stories gathering; Galen Gordon, Senior Vice President of Talent; Alison Rudnick, Vice President of Corporate Communications; and David Herndon, executive director and head of the Los Angeles office.
Godwin appointed the pinnacle of the London office, Katie den Daas, vp of stories gathering, overseeing national and international teams. The business and operations team will likely be expanded to incorporate talent, production and business affairs, reporting to ABC News Executive Vice President Derek Medina. Stacia Deshishku, Editor-in-Chief and Vice President of News, will assume responsibility for the Enterprise Investigation and Reporting Division.
“While it is a difficult time for all of us – especially those directly affected by these difficult decisions – it is necessary to keep in mind that together we’re resilient and can emerge from this transition stronger than before,” Godwin wrote.