NPR Restructuring: Layoffs & Buyouts
• NPR announced it is restructuring its newsroom, which will include eliminating some reporting and editing jobs, as it attempts to keep pace with changing audience habits while adjusting to an era without federal subsidies.
NPR President & CEO Katherine Maher says the network must fill a shortfall of $8 million in its $300-million annual budget because of the elimination of federal subsidies for its member stations, which pay NPR to air programs such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered. In a memo to staff, Maher said the network expects to earn $15 million less in station fees this year and is anticipating a drop in corporate sponsorship revenue.
The network is also offering buyouts to approximately 300 employees, mostly within newsgathering desks in the newsroom. Staff of NPR’s news programs, including hosts, are not eligible.
The actual number of departing journalists will be far smaller, NPR officials say. They say they will accept up to 30 buyouts, but more targeted layoffs would ensue if an insufficient number of employees take voluntary buyouts by next Tuesday, May 26.
Paradoxically, just prior to the announcement of these cost-cutting measures, NPR received a pair of private gifts totaling $113 million — representing the network’s second- and third largest in its 56-year history. Most of that money, however, is dedicated to technological innovation.
