Meta to Begin Layoffs on February 10, Prioritizes AI and Machine Learning Hiring

Mark Zuckerberg-led Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is set to initiate global layoffs starting Monday, February 10, according to an internal memo cited by Reuters.

While job cuts will take place across various regions, Meta is also accelerating hiring for machine learning (ML) engineers, as per the memo sent to employees. A Meta spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.

Layoffs to Begin February 10
Janelle Gale, Head of People at Meta, stated in an internal post that affected employees will begin receiving notifications from 5 AM local time in most countries, including the United States. However, employees in France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands will be exempt due to local labor laws. Meanwhile, job cuts in Africa, Europe, and Asia will take place between February 11-18.

Unlike previous layoffs, Meta will keep its offices open on February 10, Gale noted.

Expedited Hiring for AI and ML Roles
A separate memo from Peng Fan, VP of Engineering for Monetization at Meta, called for an accelerated hiring process for machine learning engineers and other critical engineering positions. Hiring for these roles is expected to take place between February 11 and March 13, aligning with Meta’s strategic priorities for 2025.

Job Cuts and Performance-Based Layoffs
In January, Bloomberg reported that Meta planned to cut approximately 3,600 jobs—around 5% of its workforce—based on performance reviews. According to a memo from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the company will implement stricter performance management and expedite the removal of underperforming employees.

Employees eligible for performance reviews will be impacted, and Meta has assured “generous severance” in line with previous layoffs. As of September 2024, Meta employed roughly 72,000 people, meaning at least 3,600 jobs are expected to be affected.