Sundar Pichai, CEO, Google, shed light on the company’s ongoing workforce adjustments and their rationale. During an all-hands meeting, he addressed concerns, outlining Google’s strategy for managing these changes amidst a transitional period.
In an exclusive interview with Bloomberg, he expanded on Google’s approach to expense management and workforce growth amid industry shifts. He stressed the necessity of tough decisions aligned with evolving priorities, aimed at maximising efficiency and productivity to meet market demands.
Pichai underlined the importance of executing layoffs thoughtfully to minimise disruption, with existing employees reportedly receiving salary raises.
He noted that most actions would occur in the first half of 2024, with a significant reduction anticipated later in the year. Pichai emphasised the company’s commitment to disciplined hiring practices moving forward.
After last year’s layoff of 12,000 employees, recent reports indicate further cuts at Google including positions tied to electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian Automotive in the Bay Area. Official filings confirm Google’s plan to cut 57 roles in San Francisco across various functions such as management, engineering and analytics.
These remarks come as Google navigates operational streamlining amid industry changes and economic uncertainties. Despite challenges, Pichai remains optimistic about Google’s adaptability and prospects in the evolving tech landscape.
Recently, the company let go 200 members from its core team as part of a cost-cutting and restructuring exercise. About 50 roles were axed from the engineering team operating out of the California headquarters. Some of the jobs are expected to be relocated overseas, primarily to India and Mexico, as reported by CNBC.
