CNN announces job cuts and restructuring to boost digital presence

CNN announces job cuts: CNN has initiated a round of job cuts and restructuring efforts aimed at strengthening its digital footprint and reducing reliance on traditional cable news channels, according to a memo sent by CNN CEO Mark Thompson to staff, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

The memo disclosed plans to lay off approximately 100 employees, constituting less than 3 percent of CNN's workforce, which totals over 3,500 employees. These measures follow previous layoffs in 2022, coinciding with the closure of CNN Plus shortly after its launch.

Thompson outlined a strategy to merge CNN's TV news and digital news teams into a unified "Global News Organisation." This consolidation aims to streamline operations, eliminate redundancies, and foster collaboration between domestic and international news desks, particularly during major breaking news events.

Recognising the shift in media consumption towards digital platforms and social media, Thompson has prioritised enhancing CNN's digital news offerings since assuming the CEO role last October.

"This effort will include a strategic push into AI," Thompson stated in the memo. Although, the specifics on CNN's AI integration were not detailed in the memo.

In addition to restructuring, CNN plans to improve its video content capabilities with the launch of two new ad-supported streaming channels later this year. The establishment of a TV Futures Lab is also in the pipeline to develop streaming programming for CNN Max and explore new avenues for digital content distribution.

CNN.com is slated to introduce its inaugural direct-to-consumer subscription product by year-end, part of a broader initiative to offer paid content encompassing news, analysis, and lifestyle topics. Details about the subscription service were not disclosed in the memo.

Addressing the future role of artificial intelligence (AI) in CNN's digital strategy, Thompson underscored the need to harness AI effectively to enhance audience engagement and deliver journalistic goals.