PwC to Hire 200 Fewer Graduates as AI Reshapes Workforce
PwC, a major accounting firm, is set to hire 200 fewer graduates this year for its UK graduate programs, a reduction of 1,300 to 1,500 entrants. Marco Amitrano, PwC's UK chief, attributes this to a slowdown in investment, hiring, and deal-making, as well as the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI).
Amitrano is optimistic about AI's potential to create new industries, but he acknowledges that it is also reshaping current roles. Job postings for AI-exposed occupations are growing at a slower pace, indicating a shift in hiring patterns. PwC is not alone in considering AI's impact on hiring. Amazon's CEO has previously predicted fewer workers due to AI.
Other companies are also exploring AI for the future of work. Energy Robotics and Tvarit are deploying AI-controlled robots for inspections and manufacturing processes. This is creating new job fields in AI development and integration, while also requiring workers to upskill or reskill to work effectively with AI systems.
PwC's reduction in graduate recruitment reflects the broader economic slowdown and the evolving role of AI in the workplace. As AI continues to reshape industries, companies are adapting their hiring practices to meet these new challenges.
