Horizon Media Axes 50 Roles in AI-Focused Agency ‘Realignment’

Horizon Media, among the world’s largest independent ad agencies, underwent a round of layoffs this week, cutting 50 roles out of a headcount of over 2,000 globally as part of a broader restructuring. 

In a company-wide email sent Monday evening, obtained by ADWEEK, CEO Bill Koenigsberg said that the layoffs were “part of a skills optimization effort and broader realignment across the agency.” 

The cuts affected various departments across the organization, according to a source familiar with the matter who spoke under the condition of anonymity. Horizon declined to specify which departments were impacted.

The reorganization came as a surprise to many, according to the current staffer. “It was definitely out of nowhere,” the source said. The cuts affected some employees who had been with the company for over 10 years, they added, sparking concern that “anyone is vulnerable.”

A Horizon spokesperson confirmed the layoffs to ADWEEK, and said in a statement that the agency is “strategically focusing our current and future talent in the areas that drive the most value for our clients.” 

In his email, Koenigsberg noted that Horizon is changing some roles while “actively investing and hiring” in areas including “data, technology, AI, product innovation, and integrated capabilities.” 

The company is currently hiring for over 100 roles, the company spokesperson told ADWEEK.  “While these changes have unfortunately resulted in the elimination of some positions, this realignment allows us to continue delivering exceptional work for our clients and build on our momentum,” the spokesperson added.

“We are deeply grateful for the contributions of our departing colleagues and are providing them with support during their transition.”

The company is increasingly focused on scaling its tech and AI offerings. In December, it launched HorizonOS, a central hub integrating AI, data analytics, and external tech partners that help marketers plan media, activate, and measure more efficiently. HorizonOS is powered by Blu, the agency’s proprietary AI system designed to generate marketing insights.

Koenigsberg said that additional details about Horizon’s planned “evolution” in capabilities and “path ahead” would be shared in a town hall in April.