• by Gavin O'Malley  @mp_gavin, August 27, 2010

Marking the most radical shift in the paper's history, USA Today on Friday announced a major organizational restructuring with the creation of new departments, as well as key appointments in circulation, finance and news. David Hunke, president/publisher of USA Today, said the "significant restructuring reflects USA Today's evolution from a newspaper company to a multiplatform media company."

In all, five new departments have been established with management positions announced. The restructuring will reportedly result in staff cuts of 9%, or about 130 of 1,500 existing jobs.

One major area of attention is digital. Steve Kurtz has been appointed vice president of digital development, focusing on USA Today's existing "dotcom," mobile, iPhone and iPad platforms. Kurtz will also oversee the development and acquisition of digital and emerging platform space.

Also, Rudd Davis has been named vice president of business development at the Gannett-owned newspaper. Previously founder and president of BNQT, Davis will head up a department at USA Today expected to develop and secure new business opportunities and partnerships, including brand licensing, content syndication, acquisitions and joint ventures.

Jeff Dionise has been appointed vice president of product development and design, in charge of research and development of new USA Today products across all of the brand's networks.

In addition, Heather Frank has been named vice president of vertical development, overseeing the department dedicated to the creation and implementation of new and existing vertical content areas. The restructuring is also bringing about the establishment of USA Today Sports. Ross Schaufelberger has been named VP/GM of that entity.

Earlier this year, Gannett Co. said USA Today employees would be asked to take another week of unpaid leave in the second quarter of 2010, while the previous year's pay freeze would continue through 2Q.

In a memo circulated at the time, Hunke said that in the fourth quarter of 2009, "National advertising revenues in general were still down from the previous year, as were paid advertising pages at USA Today," adding that "the nation's economic recovery still appears inconsistent and unsure."