Amazon plans cuts of 14,000 jobs as it redirects resources to AI
Amazon is preparing another round of layoffs affecting as many as 14,000 corporate employees globally, according to reports. The company has not officially confirmed the plans.
The cuts would target mid-level managers and white-collar roles across Amazon Web Services, retail operations, and human resources. Warehouse and logistics workers are not expected to be affected.
Amazon has already reduced its workforce by roughly 30,000 corporate positions over the past six months. The company cut around 14,000 roles in late 2025, followed by approximately 16,000 more in early 2026.
Why Amazon is cutting
The layoffs align with Amazon's shift toward artificial intelligence and cost efficiency. CEO Andy Jassy has previously said that advances in generative AI and automation could reduce the need for certain corporate functions.
Amazon is channeling resources into data centers, hardware, and software. The company plans to spend $125 billion on capital expenditure by 2026.
Some reports suggest possible restructuring in certain international markets, including China, though details remain unconfirmed.
What this means for HR leaders
The pattern across the tech sector is clear: companies are using AI tools to streamline operations, flatten management layers, and automate routine tasks in white-collar roles. HR departments themselves are not exempt from this pressure.
For HR professionals, these shifts require new skills in workforce planning, talent analytics, and change management. Understanding how AI affects recruitment, performance management, and organizational design is becoming essential.
AI for Human Resources covers recruitment automation, talent management, and workforce analytics - practical areas where HR teams are already adapting. For senior HR leaders, AI for CHROs addresses how to lead workforce transformation and plan for AI-driven organizational change.
Your membership also unlocks:
