The BBC is embracing cost-cutting measures and since 75 per cent of the broadcaster’s overall budget comprises employee costs, it has resorted to job cuts. About 185 jobs will be cut, but 55 new roles will be opened. Therefore, the net job cuts would be 130.
These cuts will reportedly result in a saving of over $31 million, which according to Deborah Turness, CEO, BBC News, is equivalent to four per cent of the news budget.
In July this year, the BBC had expressed its desire to become more lean and agile, for which it was embracing a digital-first approach for better reach.
The BBC had revealed plans to reassign resources to priority areas and opening positions in others with growth potential.
By March 2026, the BBC is targeting 500 job cuts so that £700m could be saved annually. It had a workforce strength of over 17,500 people at the end of March 2024. The public broadcaster had posted operating losses to the tune of $339.6 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year.
As part of the cost-saving measures, BBC News’ current affairs interview programe, HARDtalk and its Asian Network news service will also close.
HARDtalk—which has witnessed renowned leaders from across the world discuss sensitive topics— will shut down in March 2025.
However, in locations beyond the UK time zone, including Sydney, there will be an increase in the number of digital jobs.
