WiseTech Global to cut 2k jobs as AI ends era of 'manually writing code' (www.abc.net.au)

WiseTech Global, a leading logistics software provider, has announced plans to cut approximately 2,000 jobs—about 29% of its workforce—as part of a major transition driven by artificial intelligence (AI). CEO Zubin Appoo stated that the traditional practice of manually writing code is becoming obsolete, marking a significant shift in software engineering practices. The job reductions are set to occur throughout the remainder of the current fiscal year and into the next, impacting teams in customer service and product development, with some areas facing layoffs of up to 50% of staff. This strategic move aims to create a more efficient, AI-led organization that can operate with a lower cost base while improving scalability. This announcement reflects a wider trend in the corporate world where companies are re-evaluating workforce needs in the age of AI. As WiseTech continues its "deliberate AI transformation journey," the implications extend beyond immediate job losses, suggesting a future where human labor is increasingly supplemented or replaced by AI technologies. Investors appear to be optimistic about this shift, as evidenced by an 11.1% rise in the company's stock following the announcement. The broader implications highlight a critical need for adaptation within the tech industry, where the integration of AI could lead to further efficiency gains and reshape workforce dynamics in the coming years.