April 15, (THEWILL) — The BBC has announced plans to cut between 1,800 and 2,000 jobs as part of a major cost-saving programme.
Staff were informed during an all-staff call on Wednesday, but details of who will be affected were not shared.
The broadcaster said it needs to reduce costs by £500 million over the next two years as it faces “significant financial pressures.”
The BBC, which employs about 21,500 full-time staff, said rising production costs, pressure on income, and wider economic challenges are behind the cuts.
The job reductions are expected to be the largest at the corporation in almost 15 years.
Philippa Childs, head of broadcasting union Bectu, said the cuts would be “devastating for the workforce and to the BBC as a whole.”
The changes come as the broadcaster prepares for a leadership transition, with former Google executive, Matt Brittin, set to become director-general next month.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
