On Monday, ESPN began informing employees of layoffs as part of extensive job cuts throughout its corporate owner, the Walt Disney Company.
In February, Disney CEO Bob Iger made the announcement that the company would lay off or not hire 7,000 employees.
In a memo sent to employees by ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro, he stated that those affected will hear from their supervisor and someone from human relations this week.
According to Pitaro’s statement in the memo, “As we advance as a core segment of Disney, with operational control and financial responsibility, we must further identify ways to be efficient and nimble. We will continue to focus our workforce on initiatives that are most closely aligned with our critical priorities and emphasize decision-making and responsibility deeper into the organization.”
Last month, ESPN was not included in the first phase of Disney’s reductions. By the beginning of summer, another round of job cuts will take place in addition to the layoffs this week. Off-air employees are impacted by both phases.
During the summer, on-air talent will be affected by contract terminations, buyouts, and cuts. It is not anticipated that it will be similar to what occurred in April 2017, when reporters and hosts were informed at one time.
Vice President of communications Mike Soltys, who has been with the company for 43 years, is one of the known job cuts from Monday. Soltys affirmed his flight through social media.
