Research In Motion says it has hired two outside firms to advise on the  BlackBerry-maker's troubled business and financial performance.

The Waterloo-based company said Tuesday that both J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and RBC Capital Markets have been brought on board as it expects to face an operating loss in the first quarter.

The announcement came after the close of markets. RIM ended Tuesday nine cents higher to $11.48 on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

The company has been undergoing major changes on its executive team in recent weeks as various key players exited their roles.

Several reports have suggested RIM will cut at least 2,000 jobs at its operations around globe as part of a massive restructuring. RIM has declined to comment.

The cuts would follow a move last year to cut roughly 2,000 jobs.  The company has about 16,500 employees.

(Canadian Press)