News Broadcasting
Scientific-Atlanta appoints David Wheeler Australia, NZ country head
Scientific Atlanta has announced that in order to increase its focus on the Asia marketplace it has named David Wheeler as country manager for Australia and New Zealand.
An official release informs that the strategic acquisition of BarcoNet late last year by Scientific-Atlanta offers many benefits to cable operators, programmers and broadcasters from the converged strengths of the two organizations.
Around the world, Wheeler and other Scientific-Atlanta managers are rolling out the company’s integrated strategy of products, systems and services under the banner ‘Stronger Connections, Broader Possibilities’.
Wheeler, who will be based in Sydney, returns to his native Australia following previous assignments with Scientific-Atlanta in Australia, Singapore and the US. Most recently he served as senior director, marketing for Scientific-Atlanta’s Media Networks business unit – responsible for world wide marketing of the highly successful PowerVu digital video distribution system.
Scientific-Atlanta views Australia as an advanced broadcast and cable market populated by consumers who are early adopters of new technologies and applications.
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.
