Eric Schmidt says AI could reduce some coordination roles at large companies

Schmidt argues that AI may reduce administrative work and staffing needs, while saying employers should handle workforce changes humanely. His estimates are predictions and an example from an unnamed company, not evidence that all businesses could make similar cuts.

• Schmidt used a hypothetical 10,000-person company to estimate that a couple of thousand employees might not be needed if AI reduced coordination work.· 2 sources
• He described an unnamed friend’s company cutting 20% of its workforce, including employees handling planning and administrative coordination; he said the example does not establish that other companies could do the same.· 2 sources
• Schmidt said companies would need to change how they organize work to benefit from AI, while still needing people for roles such as product building, sales, leadership and government relations.· 2 sources