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Aust software giant slashes more than 1000 jobs
Australian software giant Canva has announced it will cut more than 1,000 jobs in a restructure it says will set the business up "for more than a decade."
- Graphic design software platform Canva has announced it will slash 22 per cent of its workforce, or 1,271 jobs, in a bid to keep growth going.
- Canva’s headquarters will remain in Sydney and some employees will be asked to relocate.
- In a note to staff, Canva founder Melanie Perkins said it was the “hardest moment” in the company’s 13-year history.
Australian software giant Canva has announced it will cut more than 1,000 jobs in a restructure it says will set the business up “for more than a decade.”
In a note to staff on Wednesday morning, Canva co-founder and CEO Melanie Perkins said 1,271 people, or 22 per cent of the company’s workforce, will be made redundant.
“This is without doubt the hardest moment in our thirteen-year history,” Perkins said in the note.
“Behind every decision is someone we care deeply about, and I know the consequences will be very real for those directly affected, their families, friends and teammates.
“I’m deeply sorry for the pain and disruption this will cause for everyone affected. While nothing can make this news easier, we will do everything we possibly can to support everyone affected.”
Despite its headquarters being located in Sydney, Canva has employees across 37 countries.
Following the restructure, Sydney will become the main office for product developers and some employees will be asked to relocate.
“We know relocating is a big decision for those being asked to consider it, and we’re committed to making the process as smooth as possible with comprehensive support,” Perkins said.
“We also want to bring more teams together in person to build trust, learn from one another and strengthen the connections that make Canva special.
“From January, we expect most Hybrid Canvanauts to spend around 2 to 3 days in the office each week, depending on what makes sense in your area.”
Perkins said employees who are made redundant will receive at least six months of salary, a year of healthcare coverage and will be able to keep their company-issued MacBook.
“Our immediate priority is to make time for the conversations with everyone directly impacted by these changes,” Perkins said.
“Those impacted will receive a calendar invite for an individual meeting with a senior leader in their area to discuss the next steps and support available should they wish to attend.
“With teams across 37 countries, we’ll need to follow different local requirements and processes, which means the timing and way these conversations happen may vary depending on where people are based.”
Canva, best known for its graphic design platform, was started in August 2013 by Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht.
Today, the company is valued at more than $40 billion and boasts more than 265 million active monthly users.
Perkins and Obrecht have a combined net worth of around $13 billion and frequently top Australia’s annual young rich list.
Topics: Business, Technology