IBM Layoffs 2025: IBM laid off around 8,000 employees, mostly from the Human Resources department, as part of a strategic overhaul integrating artificial intelligence into operations. The US tech giant transitioned approximately 200 HR roles to AI agents designed to handle repetitive tasks such as responding to queries. These AI systems, requiring minimal supervision, aim to boost efficiency significantly and slash operational costs drastically across various industries.
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna emphasized that automation is central to the company’s modernization strategy. Savings from automation are being redirected to areas like software development, marketing, and sales, leading to an overall increase in headcount. Krishna underscored IBM’s approach, which prioritizes roles demanding creativity, strategic thinking, and human judgment within a reshaped workforce.
IBM’s Chief HR Officer, Nickle LaMoreaux, emphasized that AI intends to bolster human roles rather than supplant them entirely, freeing employees for high-level decision-making tasks.
The company leverages its AI expertise heavily, assisting clients while unveiling new tools at the recent Think conference.IBM’s shift aligns with broader industry trends, exemplified by Duolingo’s transition towards AI-powered operations and Shopify’s policies favoring AI over hiring new staff.
Automation reliance grows across various industries, reshaping traditional roles and promoting AI-driven efficiency and considerable innovation.
