WiseTech Global, a prominent technology company, is poised to eliminate nearly one-third of its workforce as part of a sweeping AI-driven restructuring initiative. The announcement was made by Chief Executive Zubin Appoo on Wednesday, who declared that the 'era of manually writing code as the core act of engineering is over.'
AI Transformation Program Unveiled
In a significant move, Mr Appoo revealed an 'AI transformation program' that will result in approximately 2,000 job losses across the organisation. This decision underscores a strategic shift towards automation and artificial intelligence in the company's operations.
Phased Reduction in Key Departments
The CEO outlined that the headcount reduction will be implemented in phases, initially targeting product and development teams as well as customer service departments. Mr Appoo stated that these areas could see cuts of up to 50 per cent, reflecting a profound reorganisation of WiseTech's workforce structure.
Impact on Engineering Practices
Mr Appoo's remarks highlight a broader industry trend where traditional manual coding is being supplanted by AI-powered tools and processes. This transformation is expected to enhance efficiency but comes at the cost of significant human resources.
Stock image representation of workforce changes in the tech sector.
The announcement signals a pivotal moment for WiseTech Global as it adapts to evolving technological landscapes. Further details on the implementation timeline and support for affected employees are anticipated in the coming weeks.
