RealNetworks executives get the axe in latest layoffs

Media technology company RealNetworks announced another round of layoffs today.

The company said it’s cutting about 85 positions, which adds up to about 6 percent of its total workforce, according to TechFlash. As part of the layoffs, RealNetworks will eliminate 25 percent of its executive positions and will shrink its offices in Europe, Asia, and its Seattle headquarters.

This follows a number other layoffs in recent months, including 60 in March and 70 in November. The company has been making repeated statements about refocusing on its Real Player media technology and spinning off its other divisions. It succeeded in spinning off music service Rhapsody in April.

Meanwhile, RealNetworks founder Rob Glaser left the company’s chief executive position in January, then joined venture firm Accel Partners.

“This reorganization marks a significant milestone in our transformation of RealNetworks,” said president and acting CEO Bob Kimball in the announcement. “Restructuring RealNetworks into functional groups creates a far more efficient organization focused on developing great products that can be delivered through any of our distribution partners.”

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