News Broadcasting
Network18 launches Amplify18 with Parekh as AGM
MUMBAI: Network18, a diversified media conglomerate, has announced the launch of Amplify18. The entertainment, lifestyle & brand amplification entity of Network18, Amplify18 will leverage the group’s pan-national television network along with the strong digital network to drive visibility, awareness and business growth for its clients through innovative advertising and communication formats. In this direction, the group has appointed Mayur Parekh as assistant general manager to drive the corporate division. He will report to Puneet Singhvi, head – corporate development.
Commenting on the launch, Singhvi says, “Network18, with reach spanning 23 states and combined with the significant audience, gives it a significant ability to drive our clients’ messaging across India. This is a unique positioning and strength that is unparalleled in the news space in India. With Mayur coming on board to lead the initiative, we look forward to leveraging his experience and our reach to create a successful integration and amplification vehicle for clients across domains.”
Through Amplify18, the group aims to roll out interesting and relevant brand content and distribution integrations in order to move beyond the current format of advertising being used by brands and organizations to improve brand awareness and thereby its equity.
On the new assignment, Parekh says, “This will certainly be an exciting creative stride for me and I am geared up to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry. Our goal at Amplify18 is to make branded content business affable and most importantly an entertaining affair for our consumers. My role will be to take it to the next level by growing it aggressively.”
Parekh has over 10 years of experience in the media industry. Prior to joining Network18, he was associated with The Times of India where he was in-charge of managing Integrated Media Solutions for Brands, Events, Films & Celebrities. He has completed Masters in Marketing Management from MET Mumbai.
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.
