RIFs Hit CBS Radio News

CBS Radio News is losing a slew of its most seasoned journalists after distributor Westwood One cut its fees, The NYPost is reporting.

Senior correspondents and executives were offered buy-outs in advance of CBS Radio’s imminent spin-out of CBS Corporation, sources said.

Among those departing are: Executive Producer Charlie Kaye, with CBS for 34 years; Washington correspondent Barry Bagnato, with the network for 30 years; afternoon anchor Harley Carnes, with CBS for 24 years; and, “CBS World News” anchor Bill Whitney, a 32-year veteran of CBS Radio News.

“They were offered targeted buy-outs to accomplish cuts,” a source told The Post. “They took a big haircut in the new Westwood deal, as expected.”

Insiders are expecting more exits in the coming weeks.

CBS News vice president, radio Harvey Nagler, who heads the operation, announced in November he would be retiring from the company. His last day is expected to be Jan. 6.