Meta's biggest layoffs in history starts May 20 with 8,000 job cuts, and these employees are most at risk
Meta is cutting close to 8,000 employees on May 20 in the first wave of what could be its biggest round of layoffs ever—surpassing even the 2022–23 "year of efficiency." A second wave is planned for later in 2026, with details still being finalised.
The cuts are tied to Zuckerberg's massive AI spending push, with roles in sales, recruiting, middle management, and non-AI-adjacent functions considered most at risk.
- Meta prepares to lay off a tenth of its workforce The Times —
- Meta Eyes Layoffs of 10% of Company Starting in May The Information —
- Meta to cut 8,000 jobs — 10% of workforce — in major bloodbath next month: report NY Post —
- Exclusive: Meta targets May 20 for first wave of layoffs; additional cuts later in 2026 - Reuters Reuters —
- Meta to start companywide layoffs May 20 -- Reuters Seeking Alpha —