UPDATE: Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced a major overhaul of the company, intensifying efforts in the AI sector while grappling with significant internal turmoil. As of today, Meta is slashing 600 jobs as part of a broader restructuring within its new AI division, Meta Superintelligence Labs (MSL), aimed at accelerating innovation.
The shake-up comes as Meta aims to catch up with rivals like OpenAI and Google. Zuckerberg’s aggressive strategy includes a staggering $14 billion investment in AI training initiatives and recruiting talent from leading AI firms, but it has led to rising tensions and departures among staff. Current and former employees report a chaotic environment, with unclear roles and expectations following a series of reorganizations.
Amid rising pressure to perform, Zuckerberg implemented a stricter performance review system earlier this year, leading to a wave of layoffs and heightened competition among employees. “The unnecessary pressure, lack of empathy, and occasional lack of fairness,” one former employee stated, reflecting the frustrations that have prompted some to leave the company.
This year, Meta has reduced its workforce from 78,450 employees by targeting about 5% of “low performers,” exacerbating feelings of uncertainty among staff. While some employees express optimism about the new direction, others are disillusioned by the cultural shift toward a more aggressive corporate tone, described as “masculine energy.”
As Meta strives for a competitive edge in AI, the company’s stock has risen by only 7.5% this year—lagging behind the broader market. Analysts are questioning whether Meta’s approach is sustainable, emphasizing the need for a clear vision and steady growth. “The company must articulate its vision and demonstrate steady growth,” cautioned Mike Proulx, research director at Forrester.
Moving forward, Meta’s next steps will be closely scrutinized as it attempts to balance innovation with employee morale. The company has stated that it aims to enhance efficiency and speed in AI model releases across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. However, with internal conflicts escalating, the pressure is on for Zuckerberg and his leadership team to turn this “year of intensity” into a success, both operationally and culturally.
Stay tuned for further updates on Meta’s evolving strategy and its impact on employees and the tech landscape.
