- Meta embraces lean operating model making hiring freezes and layoffs permanent.
- Minimal hiring focuses on experienced talent for key priorities.
- Constrained headcount aids speed and discipline to weather industry volatility.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said Thursday that 2023’s self-described “Year of Efficiency” has been so effective that the company’s recent cost-cutting efforts, including two rounds of mass layoffs, will essentially become permanent.
Completed layoffs but maintained minimal hiring
Speaking during Meta’s latest earnings call, Zuckerberg confirmed they have “completed” planned layoffs but will maintain relatively minimal hiring compared to historical norms.
Some new employees will be added to address particular needs, with priority given to more experienced candidates that align with top strategic priorities.
Reflecting a new cultural mentality
The approach reflects a new cultural mentality focused on leanness and financial discipline. Zuckerberg wants to ensure Meta can weather unpredictable industry changes over the next decade.
He believes constrained hiring enables the organization to move faster long-term by avoiding bloat.
Meta continues to restructure as well, recently eliminating a management role at Instagram and asking affected staffers to re-apply and interview for a limited number of open roles to stay with the company.
The strategic hiring freeze, leadership changes, and two layoffs removing over 11,000 positions have accompanied Meta share prices reaching record highs this week.
