Australian logistics software giant WiseTech Global has confirmed it is trimming its workforce as part of a strategic review aimed at improving operational efficiency through increased automation and the adoption of artificial intelligence. While the company did not disclose the exact number of roles affected, it stated that all impacted employees are being supported with professional outplacement services to ease the transition.
The development, first reported by the Australian Financial Review, cited an internal email from Chief of Staff Zubin Appoo, informing staff that WiseTech is expanding AI usage across its operations as part of a broad restructuring plan. The company, headquartered in Sydney and best known for its CargoWise platform, had about 3,500 employees across 38 countries as of June 30, 2024.
A WiseTech spokesperson reiterated the company’s focus on maximizing efficiency through advanced technologies and assured that the workforce review aligns with long-term business goals. The restructuring follows a global trend in the tech sector, where firms are streamlining operations to reallocate resources toward AI development.
WiseTech’s decision comes on the heels of similar moves by major players like Microsoft, which announced earlier this month that it would cut nearly 4% of its global workforce. Other tech giants including Amazon, Meta, and Google — have also downsized in recent years, citing growing investments in AI infrastructure and the need for leaner, more agile operations.