RealNetworks CEO Glaser On Layoffs: 'Reflection Of The Economy'
This story was written by Staci D. Kramer.
In the wake of the layoff of 7.5 percent of RealNetworks' staff, Rob Glaser, chairman and CEO, sent an internal memo now posted at AlThingsD (including audio and video links I have yet to get to work). Some of it mirrors the company blog post we referred to earlier, but Glaser offers some more details, including how the layoffs were distributedone third in Seattle headquarters (where the holiday party has been canceled), one third in other U.S. locations and the rest from international. He cites two reasons for the cuts: integrating the company's various acquisitions and "a reflection of the economy. While our business has not been affected as much as many, we are not immune to what's going on in the wider economy."
But Glaser, like many of the other execs we're hearing from, also wants to avoid the aura that comes with layoffs: "Despite the changes being made today, which I and the rest of the management team deeply regret, the company is well positioned to weather the current economic storm. As per our last earnings call, we expect to achieve record revenue for the year, and we still see opportunities for growth and investment across the business. In order to stay healthy, we need to get our costs in line with the business as it looks today. This will enable us to continue investing in the areas that set us up for growth and success in the future."
By Staci D. Kramer