Sky launches consultation as it plans job cuts amid streaming pivot

Sky has launched a consultation that could see hundreds of UK staff lose their jobs as the broadcaster shifts from product development to running and improving its streaming and broadband platforms. Employees were informed on Tuesday, officials said, as the company moves to slim down technology teams at sites including Leeds, Livingston and Osterley and refocus resources on content and platform performance.

Sky said the review affects about 900 employees across the business, with roughly two thirds of those roles expected to be made redundant. Some reports put the total number of job losses as high as 900, while other accounts framed the changes as around 600 cuts concentrated in the technology division and in West London operations. The company has said that some roles may be redeployed where possible and that the reductions are not performance related.

A spokeswoman said Sky has spent several years launching products such as Sky Glass smart TVs, Sky Stream set top boxes and full fibre broadband, which are now established and used by millions of customers. She added that the company is shifting its approach to invest in digital first service, content and improving the...