Apple Inc (Apple) has emerged as a notable exception at a time when many of its peers are announcing layoffs. The Cupertino-based tech major seems to be adopting a conservative hiring strategy. Job postings by the company were down by 11% in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
Sherla Sriprada, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Apple has not announced any layoffs recently but is being selective in its hiring process with focus on key areas and geographies, which can be attributed to various factors such as its financial performance and strategic priorities. In contrast, Alphabet Inc (Google), which announced layoffs in January 2023, had its job postings increase by 13% in 2022 over 2021.”
Job postings by Apple in China declined by 30% in 2022 compared to 2021, which is much higher than compared to the US which registered 8% decline. Meanwhile, markets such as Taiwan, Mexico, Switzerland, Turkey, and Sweden witnessed growth in job postings.
An analysis of GlobalData’s Job Analytics Database reveals that some of the Apple’s focus areas are artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, sales, wireless systems, 4G/5G/6G, and iOS/android. Some of the job postings also indicate Apple’s focus on improving its supply chain.
For instance, in November 2022, the company posted ‘Global Sourcing and Supply Manager’ in Taiwan, the role looks at spot improvement opportunities in supply chain and work to execute key initiatives and strategies.
Sriprada concludes: “Apple has a reputation for prioritizing its employees. As a result, layoffs may not be seen as the preferred solution for the company, even in times of economic uncertainty. The company may have decided to prioritize investment in research and development, or to focus on expanding its product offerings, rather than cutting costs through layoffs.”
