SUSE announced the reduction of approximately 190 of its 1,900 full-time employees. The head of the company explained that the layoffs are dictated by the need to adapt the business model and revise the organizational structure, taking into account fundamental changes in the industry caused by the exponential development of AI capabilities and automation tools.
It is mentioned that modern tools and AI assistants are already allowing teams to work faster, reduce operating costs and build flatter management structures. In this regard, the need for a number of existing engineering and operational roles has been significantly reduced, and resources will be redirected to priority areas related to the use of AI.
Specific categories of employees being cut have not yet been disclosed, but it is noted that decisions were made based on an analysis of which tasks developers and engineers can delegate to automation, and which require expanded competencies. Previously, SUSE tried to solve the problem through a voluntary dismissal program, but there were not enough people willing to leave the company. Tomorrow, employees subject to dismissal will receive appropriate notices, and on November 16, the remaining employees will be presented with the SUSE development strategy for the 2027 financial year, which will be built taking into account the new development paradigm.