Bell Media Cuts 60 Jobs Amid Shift to Digital Transformation
Bell Media has recently announced a significant workforce reduction as part of its ongoing shift towards digital transformation. The company has laid off 60 employees, with no roles in newsgathering or reporting affected.
Details of the Layoffs
Sara McLaren, the director of communications at Bell Media, confirmed the layoffs. This decision is seen as part of a broader strategy to modernize the company’s digital media operations. The layoffs took place across various locations, impacting 20 members of Unifor, the media workers’ union.
- 11 journalists lost their jobs in key cities: Toronto, North Bay, Halifax, and Calgary.
- Other affected positions included traffic coordinators, schedulers, and promotional coordinators.
Impact on Canadian Journalism
Lana Payne, the national president of Unifor, expressed concern over the layoffs. She emphasized that expanding journalist tax credits to incorporate broadcasters might have mitigated job losses. This sentiment reflects worries about the future of journalism in Canada and its viability amidst ongoing changes.
Historical Context of Job Cuts
This recent round of layoffs follows a significant reduction in managerial positions at Bell. In November 2025, BCE Inc. eliminated 650 managerial jobs, alongside nearly 40 roles at Bell Media. McLaren noted that the latest cuts primarily affected corporate departments, continuing the trend set last fall.
Payne reiterated the union’s commitment to support its members during these turbulent times. She stated, “These cuts strike at the heart of Canadian journalism,” highlighting the broader implications for the industry.
As Bell Media navigates its transition to a digital-first approach, the impact on its workforce and the journalism sector remains a topic of critical discussion among stakeholders.
