Disney Lays Off Internet Staff
The Walt Disney Internet Group said yesterday that it has streamlined its operations by cutting 135 employees.The positions being eliminated primarily come from the group's technology organization, ABCNEWS.com and ABC.com. They include workers in operations, technology, marketing, sales support, administration and human resources in the North Hollywood, CA; Seattle; and New York offices.
"We sincerely regret the impact to these employees, each of whom has made a terrific contribution to our business. However, these layoffs will help enable us to operate in a more efficient and streamlined manner as we drive toward becoming a profitable business," said Steve Bornstein, chairman of Walt Disney Internet Group.
Those fired will receive severance packages based on their length of service as well as outplacement assistance.
The Internet group manages Disney.com, ESPN.com, ABC.com and ABCNEWS.com. It also includes the catalog operations of The Walt Disney Co. and 19 Disney-branded international properties.
