IBM CEO States AI-Driven Layoffs Resulted in Increased Hiring for Other Positions
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna revealed that the company's AI investments, which led to layoffs in some departments, ultimately increased employment by creating new roles in programming and sales.
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna recently discussed how the company's investment in artificial intelligence (AI) has reshaped its workforce. While AI automation led to the replacement of hundreds of human resources employees, it also spurred hiring in other departments, such as programming and sales.
Key Points:
- AI Replaces HR Roles: IBM deployed AI agents to handle tasks like spreadsheet analysis, research, and email drafting, reducing the need for HR staff.
- New Jobs Created: Despite layoffs in HR, IBM hired more employees in software engineering, sales, and marketing, areas Krishna described as requiring 'critical thinking' rather than repetitive tasks.
- Net Employment Increase: Krishna emphasized that total employment at IBM rose due to reinvestment in high-value roles. However, the company did not specify the timeframe for these changes.
- Tariff Impact Limited: Krishna noted that President Trump’s tariffs had a minimal effect on IBM, as most of its mainframe and quantum systems are U.S.-made. However, he warned that higher tariffs could hurt consulting demand if discretionary spending drops.
- Tech CEOs Meet with Trump: Krishna joined leaders from Intel, Qualcomm, and HP in a March meeting with Trump to discuss trade policy and manufacturing concerns.
- AI Cost Reduction to Drive Adoption: Earlier this year, Krishna predicted that falling AI costs would lead to a surge in adoption, stating, 'We will find that the usage will explode as costs come down.'
External Links:
IBM’s strategy highlights a broader trend: AI displaces some jobs but creates opportunities in others, reinforcing the need for workforce adaptability in the tech-driven economy.
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About the Author
Dr. Sarah Chen
AI Research Expert
A seasoned AI expert with 15 years of research experience, formerly worked at Stanford AI Lab for 8 years, specializing in machine learning and natural language processing. Currently serves as technical advisor for multiple AI companies and regularly contributes AI technology analysis articles to authoritative media like MIT Technology Review.