The CEO of British telecommunications giant BT Group, Allison Kirkby, has indicated that artificial intelligence will lead to more job reductions at the company by 2025. This announcement follows BT’s previous significant workforce reduction of 55,000 jobs announced in May 2023, with 10,000 of those cuts specifically attributed to AI and automation technologies. Kirkby emphasized that AI implementation will continue to reshape the company’s workforce, particularly in customer service roles where AI can handle routine inquiries more efficiently. The CEO noted that while AI will eliminate some positions, it will also create new opportunities in different areas, suggesting a transformation rather than just reduction in the workforce. BT’s strategy aligns with a broader industry trend where telecommunications companies are increasingly adopting AI to streamline operations and reduce costs. The company is focusing on using AI to improve customer service efficiency, network management, and back-office operations. This move reflects the growing impact of AI on traditional industries and highlights the significant role automation will play in future workforce planning. The announcement has raised concerns about the broader implications of AI adoption on employment in the telecommunications sector and other industries, while also emphasizing the need for workers to adapt to new technological changes and develop skills that complement AI capabilities.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/ceo-bt-telecoms-giant-warns-more-ai-driven-job-cuts-2025-6