News Broadcasting
Discovery Networks International appoints vice-president of new media
NEW DELHI: Discovery Networks International (DNI), a programming and distribution division of Discovery Communications, Inc. (DCI), today announced the appointment of Tanya Field to the newly created post of vice-president, new media, DNI.
Based in London, Field is responsible for the co-ordination of the company’s international interactive businesses, including websites, e-commerce, mobile, interactive TV and broadband. Field has served as director of new media for Discovery’s European operations since 2000. Rick Rodriguez, executive vice-president of content for Discovery Networks International, to whom Field will report, made the announcement.
“Discovery’s family of nonfiction brands represent a continually evolving universe of experiences that help connect people to the world around them, in multiple ways,” an official release quoted Rodriguez as saying. “Tanya’s wealth of experience with new media development will play an integral role in ensuring that our services are on the leading edge of innovation wherever our brands touch consumers lives.”
Field’s new media team based in Singapore, London and Miami are responsible for creative direction and implementation of new applications and services that support Discovery’s brands in the local market and around the world. Activities support key programming and the core genres of Discovery’s varied brands.
In her role as director of new media for Discovery Networks, Europe, Field was responsible for launching Discovery’s first international interactive application with Discovery Today in the UK. She also established Discovery’s current European websites and has subsequently overseen the launch of new websites in Asia and India. Prior to joining Discovery, Field was GM of BskyB Gaming, a full service interactive media division.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
