Paramount mandates 5-day-a-week return to office ahead of major cost cuts

Core Points - David Ellison is implementing significant changes at Paramount following its acquisition by Skydance, including a mandatory return to the office five days a week starting January 5, 2026 [1][2] - The changes aim to build a stronger, more connected, and agile organization to enhance competitiveness and achieve long-term success [2] - Paramount is expected to lay off between 2,000 and 3,000 employees as part of cost-cutting measures, with $2 billion in costs targeted for reduction due to advertising losses and challenges in the traditional cable network industry [3] Company Changes - Phase one of the back-to-work plan will require employees in Los Angeles and New York to return to a full five-day work week in early 2026 [4] - Phase two will extend this requirement to offices outside of Los Angeles and New York, including international locations, with a similar buyout program planned for 2026 [4] - The company acknowledges the significant nature of these changes and is committed to supporting employees during the transition [5]