New York Public Radio has made significant staff reductions through a combination of layoffs and voluntary buyouts.
The company laid off fourteen employees and accepted voluntary buyouts from twelve others out of a total workforce of 302.
LaFontaine Oliver, CEO, told remaining staffers in a memo, “Despite our best efforts to contain costs and grow our revenue, we continue to face severe financial headwinds. Our deficit has continued to mount and it has become painfully clear that without swift action, we will soon face significant questions about our ability to continue to serve New York.”
The layoffs will impact Nimet Habachy, the current weekend overnight host, who will depart the station after 42 years of service.
The cuts will include discontinuing the show “Notes from America,” hosted by Kai Wright on WNYC-FM, the “More Perfect” and “La Brega” podcasts from WNYC, and all six podcasts produced by WQXR. Additionally, events planned for the “Greene Space” performance venue at WNYC’s Manhattan headquarters will be reduced.
Speaking to “Gothamist,” New York Public Radio spokesperson Jennifer Houlihan Roussel revealed that the organization’s sponsorship revenue declined from $23 million in 2022 to $16.2 million in 2023. Additionally, the group cut 40 positions in October 2023.
The layoffs occurred just two days after New York Public Radio celebrated its 100th anniversary with a celebration in New York City’s Central Park.
Absolutely gutted to hear of Ms. Habachy’s exit. She is the reason I would force myself to stay awake on the nights she presented on WQXR. Her skill and breadth of knowledge is unmatched and I’ll miss the magic of her voice terribly. 🙏🏼