Viacom has already reduced the creative and content staff, as the production of re-runs and single digit rated shows don’t require (talented) staff. Bob must like re-runs, and there is a faint rumor Viacom may be rebranding as Rerun.com.
Are there upcoming staff reductions? Yes, as well as the phase out (closing) of the once productive mid-country global service center. P2P (A/P) and R2R (accounting) are upcoming, with staff reductions and offshore headcount reallocation. Significant savings will be achieved in said location through elimination of senior (local) management and ancillary service personnel. In addition, backfilling with robotics (Hal) will enable additional layoffs by mid-August and FYE. This is not the company to invest, build a career, be recognized for ones efforts, or attempt to add value. Viacom is somewhat of a current day rerun of Hollywood Video…a dying entity.
One positive outcome is senior management (those with three letters for a title) have become quite conversant in the art of self preservation, in addition to being highly compensated for contributing very little to their departmental and global goals. I would suspect many may have come from government, or be headed that direction when their time comes. For the last several years they have tirelessly concentrated on constant “change management” and “go live” testing and implementation. Distraction does work. Adept as they are, now they have transitioned to specifically focusing on staff reductions and re-allocation of assets. What keeps them going?…ego, two cell phones, a laptop, and a corporate travel card. Should they remain in one spot too long, their subconscious tells them that they could be eliminated, and possibly their greatest fear is nobody would miss them, or even notice their absence.
The advice which is permeating within the ranks, is to search out new opportunities and be in control of your future. Unless your title has three letters.