Uber Trims HR, Facilities: Efficiency Over AI Layoffs

Uber Technologies has initiated significant changes within its People and Places division, which oversees human resources, recruitment, and workplace facilities. The company announced job cuts affecting 23% of this division, a move that constitutes less than 1% of its total global workforce of 34,000 employees. These adjustments are part of a broader strategy to simplify team structures and enhance operational efficiency.

The restructuring is spearheaded by Jill Hazelbaker, who was recently promoted to President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer. Her expanded role now includes the People and Places organization, alongside safety operations. Hazelbaker cited the need to address organizational complexity and fragmented responsibilities, stating that some teams had become "too complex and fragmented."

Unlike some tech firms focusing on AI-driven efficiency, Uber's cuts are targeted for cost reduction. The company continues to hire for numerous roles, including those related to robotaxis, and has stated it will slow hiring due to its internal use of AI. Additionally, HR employees approved for remote work are now required to comply with a new three-day-a-week office mandate that took effect last June.