ITV is facing a significant internal backlash as furious staff members accuse top brass of staggering hypocrisy. This follows an extravagant London party thrown by executives, complete with celebrity performances, while the broadcaster simultaneously enforces a hiring freeze and deep cost-cutting measures.
A Night of Glitz Amidst Austerity
The event, dubbed a 'Reset' party, was held at a exclusive Central London venue. Attendees, including CEO Carolyn McCall and other senior figures, were treated to a performance by pop sensation Ellie Goulding. The lavish evening stands in stark contrast to the financial constraints being imposed across the rest of the company.
'It's a Slap in the Face,' Say Employees
Insiders have expressed their fury, labelling the party a 'slap in the face' to ordinary workers. The sentiment is particularly raw as ITV has implemented a hiring pause and is aggressively seeking to slash costs, leaving many employees feeling undervalued and overworked.
One disgruntled staffer told the Mirror: "Morale is at rock bottom. To see such a blatant display of excess while we're all being told to tighten our belts is disgusting. It shows a complete disconnect from the reality of the people who actually make this company work."
Leadership Defends the Event
In response to the growing anger, an ITV spokesperson defended the party. They stated that the event was a strategic investment to motivate key team leaders and celebrate content creators, arguing that such gatherings are vital for creative businesses. The company emphasised its commitment to supporting its staff despite the challenging economic climate affecting the entire media sector.
However, for many employees watching from the sidelines, the optics of elite executives enjoying a night of opulence have only deepened the sense of inequality within the iconic British broadcaster.
