Washington Post CEO Urges Misaligned Staff to Take Buyouts

Washington Post CEO Will Lewis has sent a memo urging staffers who do not feel aligned with the company’s new direction to consider taking a voluntary separation program (VSP) and resign. Lewis highlighted the Post's ongoing reinvention, including a reimagined Opinion section that champions American values, flexible subscription options, new product features, and rapid adoption of AI across workflows. He emphasized the need for unity and passion among employees to successfully reconnect with audiences and defend democracy amid these changes. The voluntary separation program is designed to support employees in making thoughtful decisions with financial security if they choose to leave. Lewis expressed gratitude to all employees for their contributions and excitement for the future with those who remain committed to the new direction. This memo follows a recent buyout program targeting veteran staffers, signaling a significant organizational shift at the Post.