Netflix is set to bid farewell to two top executives, Chief Communications Officer Rachel Whetstone and Global Public Policy VP Dean Garfield, as the streaming giant restructures its senior roles. The decision was shared with employees via an internal memo on Tuesday. According to sources, the company, under Co-CEO Ted Sarandos, is combining its communications and policy functions into a newly created role: Chief Global Affairs Officer. This role will cover both domains, and external candidates are expected to be considered for the position.
Both Whetstone and Garfield are prominent industry figures. Whetstone, who joined Netflix in 2018, brought with her extensive experience in high-profile communications roles from companies like Google, Uber, and Facebook. Garfield, who came on board in 2019, has a robust background in policy, having previously served as CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council and held senior roles with the Motion Picture Association and the Recording Industry Association of America. However, it was noted that Garfield lacks a background in communications, and Whetstone opted out of consideration for the combined role, which influenced their decisions to depart.
“For nearly six years, Rachel and Dean have been not just leaders, but true partners,” Sarandos expressed in a statement, also acknowledging Co-CEO Greg Peters. “Their counsel, dedication, and passion have shaped our company and contributed to our success.”
The departures of Whetstone and Garfield mark another step in Netflix’s restructuring efforts, which include streamlining its operations to navigate the shifting media landscape. While Netflix’s cuts and restructuring haven’t matched the scale seen in other major media companies, they reflect a significant shift as the company continues to redefine its leadership structure.
