TVNZ proposing leadership reshuffle, staff reductions: reports

TVNZ has proposed a net reduction of 49.5 roles across the business as part of an effort to reduce costs and increase revenue by $30 million, according to reports.

The media organisation told Stuff in a statement that it is proposing to disestablish 90.5 roles while creating 41 new positions.

"The proposed reduction in headcount is broadly proportionate to the size of each business area," the statement read.

Proposed changes at TVNZ leadership

The statement comes after Stuff obtained a confidential document detailing these proposals, which suggest a merging of the News and Current Affairs (NCA) division with the Content department.

One of the key proposals involves a reorganisation of the newsroom's leadership hierarchy.

Under the new structure, the executive editor, currently held by Phil O'Sullivan, would be moved to a secondary position, reporting to a new role of Chief News & Content Officer.

According to Stuff, the new position would combine responsibilities from both the news and content departments. TVNZ's current Chief Content Officer, Nevak Rogers, is considered a possible candidate for the role.

The proposal also outlines changes to other senior positions within the NCA leadership team. The role of GM Digital News & Content would remain, as would the position of Editor of Newsgathering, although the latter would be downgraded to a lower tier within the structure.

A new Head of Story Development & Operations role would be introduced, reporting to a GM of Production Operations, marking a shift from the current GM Story Development and Operations position.

Notably, the role of Editor of Content, previously responsible for overseeing programmes like Fair Go and Sunday, would be eliminated. These shows were recently cancelled by TVNZ, with content staff already occupying desks previously assigned to those programmes.

Proposed staff cuts at TVNZ

Staff cuts are also anticipated across various roles in the newsroom, Stuff reported.

Bureau chiefs in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington are among those proposed for disestablishment. In their place, a single Wellington-based Central Bureau Chief position may be created.

Reporter positions are expected to be reduced, including a proposed elimination of the Northland reporter role and a reduction in the number of Auckland-based reporters from seven to five.

Camera operators around the country will also face reapplication processes for six fewer positions.

TVNZ's statement did not directly address the contents of the leaked document. However, the broadcaster emphasised that these proposals are part of a broader effort to reduce costs and increase revenue by $30 million.

"These are proposals, no decisions have been made, and we are now seeking feedback from our people to help shape the outcomes," the statement said as quoted by Stuff.

In response to the difficulties posed by the proposed changes, TVNZ acknowledged the strain on its staff.

"This is incredibly tough for TVNZers. These are not choices we want to be making, but we need to ensure the future sustainability of the organisation. We are committed to ensuring our people are supported. A range of free, confidential professional counselling and career support services will be available throughout the process," the statement added.