OR Media, a British production company known for its work with the Saudi state broadcaster and BBC, is currently facing challenging times. Reports indicate that the company has laid off 14% of its workforce and is struggling to pay freelancers. The situation has been described as chaotic, with current and former staff members raising concerns about the company’s financial stability.
According to sources, OR Media has failed to pay freelancers for months, leading to estimates of hundreds of thousands of pounds in outstanding payments. In addition, the company has laid off 18 employees, which accounts for around 14% of its total staff. The manner in which these layoffs were communicated, including text messages and late-night emails, has raised eyebrows and added to the company’s reputation crisis.
An OR Media spokesman attributed the company’s financial difficulties to a major but unnamed UK client that imposed strict payment terms on them. While the company acknowledges its debts and expresses a desire to continue working with OR Media in the future, the tight payment plan has left the company in a precarious position. The spokesman mentioned that new contracts are in the pipeline, which may help the company recover in the near future.
Aside from financial challenges, OR Media has also come under scrutiny for the lack of mental health support for its staff working on projects that involve disturbing footage. One insider highlighted the emotional toll of working on such content, indicating a potential need for better mental health provisions within the company.
OR Media is run by Saudi filmmaker Adel Alabdulkarim, who is also the sole director of Volant Media, the parent company of TV network Iran International. This connection raises questions about the company’s affiliations and potential conflicts of interest. The company’s website showcases a diverse range of documentary series and movies produced over the past three decades, highlighting its experience in the industry.
As OR Media navigates through its financial struggles and reputation crisis, it faces significant challenges in rebuilding trust with its employees, freelancers, and clients. The company’s ability to secure new contracts and pay off its outstanding debts will be crucial in determining its future success. Implementing better communication strategies and addressing concerns over mental health support will also be key factors in stabilizing the company’s operations.
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