Decision
Blake Stewart takes over all Megaphone client accounts starting Monday August 3. Michael takes over engineering directly. Ben’s role is being significantly reduced, with a conversation scheduled to give Ben a chance to propose alternatives.
Context
The writer-review model is being replaced by a Blake plus AI system, seen as both higher quality and more cost-effective. Jacob stays on Draper/Tim accounts for 1-2 months to ensure continuity. This restructuring is intended to free up margin that will be reinvested into growth.
Options Considered
- Keep current model (writers + review): Higher labor cost, lower quality per dollar; does not scale with AI leverage.
- Blake + AI lead model: Blake handles client relationships (the human trust layer AI cannot replace); AI handles content production; fewer headcount; better margins.
Consequences
- Blake takes all accounts except Draper/Tim (Jacob stays 1-2 months).
- Max (Draper) moves to Blake; David writes for Max, not Jacob.
- Michael takes over engineering; Rafael and Michael move to QA/code review, not primary builders.
- Ben offered a chance to propose alternatives; likely outcome is part-time or departure.
- Writers to be informed tomorrow (July 31) or Monday.
- Margin gains reinvested into growth; underinvested for 1+ year.