Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, will cut approximately 3,600 positions, or 5% of its global workforce. CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the decision, emphasizing a focus on quickly addressing underperformance. The company plans to replace these roles later in 2025.
In a memo to staff, Zuckerberg described this as an effort to prepare for an “intense year.” He highlighted plans to raise performance standards and streamline the removal of “low performers.”
Timeline for Job Cuts and Severance
The layoffs will affect Meta’s global workforce of around 72,000 employees. U.S.-based workers will be informed by February 10, while international employees will learn about their status later. Zuckerberg assured impacted employees they would receive “generous severance.”
Zuckerberg’s memo also acknowledged that performance-based job cuts are routine in the corporate world. At Meta, such cuts usually unfold gradually, but this year’s process will be expedited.
Meta last implemented major layoffs in 2023, cutting 10,000 roles as part of a cost-saving initiative. Another 11,000 positions were eliminated in 2022 during what Zuckerberg called the “year of efficiency.”
Shifting Strategy and Public Image
This move is part of broader changes under Zuckerberg’s leadership. Meta has recently scaled back its fact-checking and diversity programs. The CEO explained that the intense focus on performance aims to ensure teams are composed of the strongest contributors.
Zuckerberg is also reshaping his personal brand. In a podcast with Joe Rogan, he discussed embracing “masculine energy” and his interest in martial arts. He said the sport allows him to express himself in ways his corporate role does not.
“When you’re leading a company, people don’t want to see you as ruthless,” Zuckerberg said. “But in fighting, you can be competitive, and people recognize that as authentic.”
These workforce cuts and cultural shifts reflect a new phase for Meta as it navigates 2025’s challenges.