WASHINGTON: Burson-Marsteller reduced staff levels across the country last week, laying off slightly more then a dozen employees, or 2% of its workforce.
According to sources within the agency, the layoffs occurred across practice areas and among all levels.
"Over the last month or two, we've been looking at the business we have in hand and our staffing needs, which areas are growing and which aren't growing," said firm spokesman Peter Himler. "I would characterize it not as layoffs, but more of an adjustment. We looked at our skill sets and readjusted so we could enter the new year in a strong way."
The global agency has also been hiring in recent weeks, with expertise being sought in the technology, healthcare, and corporate practices.
The layoffs apparently came just as a number of management changes were made at the top last month. Pat Ford, formerly the MD in the firm's public affairs practice, took over for Judi Mackey as chairman of the US corporate practice. Bob Kornecki simultaneously took over as head of the agency's Midwest region after the departure of Bob McEwen.
