Warner Music Group announces $170 million in layoffs as part of larger restructuring plan

According to a memo sent to staff on Tuesday by CEO Robert Kyncl, Warner Music Group is set to dismiss an undetermined amount of workers, as part of their cost-cutting restructuring initiative that’s been ongoing for several months.

In a recent memo, Kyncl proposed a strategy to secure the company’s future by cutting annual expenditures by approximately $300 million. Out of this amount, about $170 million is intended for workforce adjustments aimed at increasing agility and effectiveness. The remaining $130 million in savings will be derived from administrative and real estate expenses, as he explained.

The remaining actions, or “steps,” that the company, Kyncl mentioned, are part of a substantial transformation period. Over the past two years, there have been instances of downsizing and changes in leadership within the company as an effort to restructure it.

Hollywood Inc.

Approximately three months ago, the company reduced its workforce by 200 employees in the TV sector. Now, it’s announcing further layoffs affecting around 300 workers from the television, film, and corporate finance sectors.

As a devoted follower, I understand this news might leave you feeling troubled and inquisitive. Our Executive Leadership Team has been diligently brainstorming our future trajectory and the most advantageous route for us to take. These choices are not being made haphazardly; they’re tough calls that will require us to bid farewell to some exceptionally talented individuals. Rest assured, we are resolute in maintaining empathy and integrity throughout this process.

The exact number of employees facing layoffs and which departments might get reduced isn’t certain yet, but Kyncl underscored that the company’s primary focus is expanding financial support for its artistic and development team, as well as pursuing potential mergers and acquisitions.

Before the announcement of job cuts, the company unveiled a $1.2 billion partnership with Bain Capital aimed at investing in music catalogs. This alliance is expected to boost the company’s ability to acquire music collections, encompassing both recorded music and music publishing, as stated by Kyncl.

Hollywood Inc.

At Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery, it’s not only about worker strikes or issues with cables. Instead, they are undergoing a significant transformation or restructuring in their operations.

In a constantly evolving field, it’s essential that we consistently enhance our long-term skills in artist management, songwriting, and catalog growth. That is the core reason for this company’s existence, it’s what we excel at, and it will be our key to standing out in the future.

In the year 2023, Warner Music reduced its staff by 270 positions, which equates to about 5% of their total workforce. Then, a year later in 2024, they let go of another 600 employees, representing around 10% of their employees.

Warner Music Group shares closed at $27.83, up 2.17%, on Tuesday.

Read More

2025-07-02 02:01

Previous post Watch the trailer for “terrifying” new horror with All Creatures Great and Small star
Next post Tammy Hembrow’s ex Matt Zukowski slips up and says it’s time to ‘date’ again – before quickly back tracking