Recruit Holdings, the Japanese conglomerate that owns popular job platforms Indeed and Glassdoor, has announced plans to cut around 1,300 jobs globally, representing approximately 6% of its HR technology workforce. This move is part of a broader restructuring aimed at prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) and streamlining operations across its recruitment platforms.
According to an internal memo reviewed by Reuters, the layoffs will primarily affect employees in the United States, spanning departments such as research and development, growth, and people and sustainability, though all functional areas and several countries will be impacted.
“AI is changing the world, and we must adapt by ensuring our product delivers truly great experiences for job seekers and employers,” said Recruit CEO Hisayuki “Deko” Idekoba, underscoring the rationale behind the shift.
As part of this strategic overhaul, Glassdoor’s operations will be integrated into Indeed, leading to significant leadership changes. Glassdoor CEO Christian Sutherland-Wong will step down on October 1, while LaFawn Davis, Indeed’s Chief People and Sustainability Officer, will leave her role on September 1, to be succeeded by Ayano Senaha, the current COO of Recruit.
This marks the latest in a string of layoffs from Recruit Holdings. In 2024, Indeed cut 1,000 jobs, following a 2023 reduction of 2,200 employees—15% of its workforce at the time. The ongoing trend reflects an industry-wide push by major tech firms to reallocate resources toward AI development amid evolving economic pressures and competitive dynamics.
Recruit currently employs approximately 20,000 people within its HR technology business unit.
