Performance-Based Layoffs Begin Across Global Operations
Meta Restructures has commenced another round of workforce reductions today as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts. The company is implementing performance-based terminations across its global offices, affecting approximately 5% of its workforce. According to internal communications accessed by Reuters, employees in most countries were expected to receive notifications from 5 a.m. local time. The restructuring move mirrors similar steps taken by other leading tech firms, including Microsoft, which recently initiated targeted job cuts.
The layoffs will be rolled out in phases across different regions. Employees in the United States are among the first to be notified, while staff in European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands will remain unaffected due to Workers in other regions, including parts of Asia and Africa, will be informed in the coming weeks. Unlike previous layoff rounds, Meta Restructures has decided to keep its offices open during the notification process and will not issue a broader company-wide announcement regarding the decisions.
Strategic Workforce Adjustments and AI Expansion
Meta’s latest workforce reductions are aligned with its strategic pivot towards artificial intelligence and advanced technology. In an internal memo earlier this year, the company’s leadership emphasized the importance of retaining high-performing employees while expediting the exit of underperforming staff. This round of layoffs is expected to impact around 3,600 employees, based on Meta’s current workforce figures.
Despite the reductions, the company is actively recruiting for specialized roles in AI and machine learning. A separate internal communication from Peng Fan, Meta’s VP of Engineering for Monetization, outlined an accelerated hiring initiative for key engineering positions. The recruitment drive, focused on machine learning experts and other critical tech roles, is scheduled to take place between February 11 and March 13.
The emphasis on AI development follows a broader industry trend, as major tech firms increasingly prioritize emerging technologies. Meta’s CEO has highlighted the company’s commitment to developing next-generation computing platforms, including artificial intelligence and augmented reality devices. These shifts suggest a reallocation of resources from traditional roles to more specialized fields essential for future innovation.
Tech Industry Shifts and Employment Trends
Meta Restructures latest workforce restructuring is part of a broader pattern within the tech sector, as companies refine their hiring strategies to align with evolving technological priorities. In 2022, the company undertook a major reduction, cutting 11,000 positions, followed by another 10,000 layoffs in 2023 during what was internally referred to as the “Year of Efficiency.” Microsoft has also pursued similar workforce adjustments, reducing 10,000 roles last year and recently eliminating 1,900 positions within its gaming division following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
The current wave of job cuts across major tech firms highlights a shift away from broad-based hiring towards more targeted recruitment strategies. Companies are now focusing on acquiring talent in areas such as AI and automation while scaling back on traditional roles. This restructuring trend may influence hiring practices across the tech industry as businesses seek to balance workforce efficiency with the demands of emerging technologies.
