Janet Robinson, President and C.E.O. of The New York Times Company and Jim Follo, Vice-President and C.F.O., addressed the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference this morning.
Robinson and Follo talked mainly about the Company’s current and future financial shape. While it’s been a challenging year, The Times has some things to be pleased about. For example:
“We have a very significant relationship with Google, and a very good relationship with them,” said Mr. Follo.
Lest listeners miss the Murdoch-oriented subtext, he clarified: “A distinctly successful one, unlike some of our competitors’ relationships.”
Other highlights:
-Ms. Robinson and Mr. Follo dodged questions about the implementation of a pay-model. Mr. Follo said that the decision wouldn’t be “dragged out very much longer,” but urged everyone to be patient; Robinson emphasized the need for a “frictionless” reader experience regardless of what approach The Times takes.
– Ms. Robinson mentioned the need for business-side job cuts, in addition to the 100 jobs to be shed from the newsroom.
