The “publisher” job title will soon be phased out at Time Inc, as part of CEO Joe Ripp’s ongoing restructuring, sources tell Media Ink.

The change — which could be unveiled within the next week — will be a jarring change for many, especially those who have spent years climbing the corporate ladder.

The company is taking a gamble that by stripping away the old job titles it will make it easier to compete in the digital media world — without eroding the print base, where it still derives most of its revenue.

Karen Kovacs, the publisher of People, which has long been the most profitable magazine even in tough times, has already been told she will lose that title but will be put in charge of selling the food category across all titles, sources said.

Other publishers are getting the word beginning this week. Some will be shown the door, sources said.