Unlocking Insights: CNN CEO Mark Thompson Implements Layoffs to Strengthen Media Strategy - Business

CNN CEO Mark Thompson made a significant announcement on Wednesday , revealing plans to lay off 100 employees , marking the first major round of layoffs since he took over the struggling cable channel . Thompson , who has been working on reshaping the morning lineup , is now attempting to implement a new vision for the network , calling it a key milestone in the transformation of CNN.

 Turning a great news organization towards the future is not a one - day affair , Thompson told staff in a memo , ahead of a town hall scheduled for later in the day . It happens in stages and over time.

The new five - point plan includes eliminating 100 jobs , about 3 % of the workforce , to consolidate news operations and strengthen CNN 's digital business . Thompson , a former executive at The New York Times and the BBC , aims to revamp the CNN newsroom structure.

Unlocking Insights: CNN CEO Mark Thompson Implements Layoffs to Strengthen Media Strategy

The announcement of the layoffs has sparked concerns among CNN staff , especially after the recent partnership with the Associated Press for website content . However , a CNN spokesperson denied that the AP deal would lead to job cuts , contrary to the fears of the employees . The network has been facing challenges in the cable news industry as revenue continues to decline due to the changing landscape of television viewing habits.

Thompson 's future plans for CNN include launching a new subscription service that he believes will generate over billion for the company . He also intends to unify the newsrooms three divisions and implement AI tools to enhance the news process . Additionally , expanding bureaus in Hong Kong , London , and LA will help create a 24/7 worldwide news model to cater to diverse platform needs and adapt to unexpected news cycles.

In the midst of the digital changes , minor updates to CNN 's television programming were also announced . The network 's ratings have been struggling this year , facing challenges from competitors like Fox News and MSNBC . Thompson 's leadership at CNN comes after a period of turmoil , following the departure of former CEO Jeff Zucker and short - lived tenure of Chris Licht . Thompson 's goal is to replicate the success he achieved at The New York Times in transforming the digital business model to generate significant revenue.