Meta's workforce shake-up: 3,600 employees to be replaced, CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirms

In a major restructuring move, Meta will lay off approximately 3,600 employees, representing about five percent of its workforce, as part of CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to move out low-performing staff. This performance-based decision is aimed at ensuring the company retains the “strongest talent” and is better positioned for future growth.

Focus on Performance Management and Talent Strengthening

According to an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg, Meta will replace the laid-off employees with new hires, ensuring a more efficient and dynamic workforce. Zuckerberg emphasized that the performance-based cuts are necessary to improve Meta’s talent pool and bring in fresh talent to help the company thrive. With about 72,400 employees as of September, Meta’s restructuring comes as part of an ongoing effort to optimize performance.

Restructuring Amid Broader Changes at Meta

The layoffs come as part of broader changes at Meta, as the company has been aligning more closely with conservative viewpoints, particularly ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House on January 20. In a move that has attracted significant attention, Zuckerberg has been meeting with Trump and appointing a Republican as Meta’s head of public affairs. These changes signal a shift in Meta’s corporate culture and direction.

Meta’s Shift on Misinformation and Fact-Checking Programs

In addition to workforce changes, Zuckerberg recently announced the end of Meta’s U.S. fact-checking program aimed at combating misinformation. The program faced criticism from conservative voices who accused it of censorship, marking another significant policy shift at the company as it adjusts its operations in the evolving political landscape.