Probably because a TVC that doesn't pull its weight will be let go right away. I suspect that the "economic downturn" is just an excuse to trim the fat. Also no

Probably because a TVC that doesn't pull its weight will be let go right away. I suspect that the "economic downturn" is just an excuse to trim the fat. Also note the wording in OP: these are "non-billable corporate functions". ie middle management and such.