Meta Halts AI Recruitment After Attracting Experts from Google, OpenAI, and Microsoft

 

Meta, a major player in the social media space with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and more under its belt, has reportedly paused hiring within its artificial intelligence (AI) division. This includes positions for researchers and engineers. The decision comes after months of aggressive recruitment, where the company attracted top AI talent from competitors like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Anthropic.

According to a Wall Street Journal report, the hiring freeze took effect last week, though Meta has already onboarded over 50 AI researchers, with salaries ranging from seven to eight figures.

Why has Meta paused hiring?

While Meta hasn't provided an official explanation, insiders suggest that the hiring freeze is part of the company’s regular organizational and financial planning. The strategy seems to reflect a focus on stabilizing the AI division after bringing in top-tier talent. A Meta spokesperson confirmed the freeze, stating that the company is focusing on “creating a solid structure for our new superintelligence efforts,” following the hiring of new experts and completing budgeting exercises.

This move follows Meta’s recent attempts to acquire several AI startups in a bid to further enhance its AI team. One noteworthy example involved an offer close to USD 1 billion for Thinking Machines Lab, co-founded by former OpenAI COO Mira Murati. However, the deal ultimately fell through.

Restructuring of the AI division

In addition to the hiring pause, Meta is also restructuring its AI efforts. The Superintelligence Labs division is now split into four key areas:

1. AI Research: Focused on making significant breakthroughs in AI.

2. Superintelligence Development: Concentrating on building advanced AI systems.

3. AI Tools and Features: Creating practical applications for Meta's platforms.

4. Infrastructure: Developing AI hardware and expanding data center capabilities.

What does this mean for the future?

The hiring freeze signals a shift from rapid expansion to a more deliberate approach, as Meta works to stabilize and organize its AI division. Experts believe the restructuring is a move to bring clearer focus while balancing financial resources. At the same time, it reflects the increasing competition and rising costs in the global AI talent market.