As part of a broader restructuring strategy focused on artificial intelligence, Meta is preparing to reduce its global workforce by nearly 10%, affecting around 8,000 employees. The move comes as the company accelerates investments in AI and reshapes operations to improve efficiency and productivity.
The layoffs are expected to begin on May 20 and will be accompanied by a hiring freeze affecting nearly 6,000 open roles. In a memo to employees, Meta Chief People Officer Janelle Gale said the company was making organizational changes that would result in workforce reductions. She also acknowledged that reports about the layoffs had already surfaced publicly, prompting Meta to communicate the changes earlier than originally planned.
Affected employees in the United States will receive 16 weeks of base pay, along with an additional two weeks’ salary for every completed year at the company. Meta also said it would continue providing healthcare support for impacted US employees and their families for up to 18 months, covering COBRA insurance costs during the transition period.
For employees outside the United States, severance packages will follow similar principles but will vary depending on local labor laws and employment policies. The company said further details would be shared closer to the implementation date. Meta also stated that affected employees would receive career assistance to help them secure new opportunities. Immigration-related support will also be provided wherever required.
Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s Chief Executive Officer, said the restructuring is aimed at streamlining teams and improving productivity rather than replacing employees entirely with AI systems. He added that the company would continue to reward high-performing employees as it strengthens its long-term AI strategy.
