Amazon Cuts Jobs in Sustainability Department

Amazon Announces Role Eliminations in Communications and Sustainability

Amazon is reducing its workforce in select areas, specifically within its Communications and Sustainability departments. This information comes from an internal memorandum obtained by TechCrunch.

Return-to-Office Policy as a Contributing Factor

The reductions appear to be connected to Amazon’s recently announced return-to-office mandate. CEO Andy Jassy communicated in September that employees would be required to work from the office five days a week starting in 2025, a decision that met with resistance from staff.

SVP Drew Herdener explained in the memo that certain positions were deemed too specialized or created unnecessary management layers. The company is aiming to streamline operations and redistribute workloads.

Restructuring and Headcount Management

Herdener further stated that the overall size of the department is not expected to decrease. He indicated that Amazon intends to refill some of the eliminated positions with new hires at different levels.

During a discussion with CEO Andy Jassy, it was clarified that reducing overall headcount was not the primary objective of this reorganization.

Details on Job Losses and Support

Amazon spokesperson Brad Glasser declined to disclose the exact number of roles affected when contacted by TechCrunch. However, the memo assures impacted employees they will receive financial assistance, continued benefits, and support in finding new employment.

Timing and Potential Political Influences

These cuts in sustainability and corporate responsibility roles occurred shortly after the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos was present at the inauguration, seated near Trump and other tech leaders.

Bezos, along with other prominent tech founders, contributed $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund.

Broader Restructuring and Initiative Cancellations

The restructuring process at Amazon predates President Trump’s election. However, the evolving relationship between Bezos and the new administration may signal future changes within the company.

Since the change in administration, Amazon has already discontinued some diversity and inclusion programs, aligning with the new administration’s priorities.

Federal Policy Shifts and Sustainability

The Trump administration has already taken steps to reverse federal sustainability initiatives. This includes withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Furthermore, a national emergency was declared to encourage increased production of fossil fuels, rather than prioritizing sustainable energy alternatives.

This article was updated to reflect Amazon’s refusal to comment.