Optimove has announced the Tel Aviv-based CRM specialist will part ways with approximately 10% of its 500-plus employees as part of a shift towards an AI-centric model.
Confirming the move on LinkedIn on Tuesday, 16 June, founder and CEO Pini Yakuel cited the increased industry-wide dependence on AI as a major contributing factor, stating that the igaming-focused CRM supplier is “acting from a position of strength”.
He wrote: “The AI era is changing what it takes to build and lead a great software company.
“It is no longer enough to add AI features to a product. The strongest companies will be the ones that rethink how they work, how they build, how they make decisions, how they serve customers, and how they structure their teams.
“That is the company we are building at Optimove. As part of this shift, we have made the painful decision to part ways with approximately 10% of our employees.”
“I believe deeply in the importance of this change. That is why we are making this move now, while Optimove is financially healthy, growing and serving some of the world’s leading brands.
“We are acting from a position of strength, with a clear view of the company we need to become in order to lead in the years ahead.”
Privately owned Optimove, which has five main offices across North America, the UK and the Middle East, is the latest company in the industry to streamline its operations with a view to leaning more heavily on AI.
Last month, Gambling.com Group announced plans to cut 25% of its workforce as part of the implementation of “AI-first working principals”.
Data supplier Lsports made a similar move in May, letting go of an estimated 20% of its staff due to an “accelerated revolution of AI and automation”.
Yakuel added: “To our customers, partners, and future customers: this change is about making Optimove faster, sharper, and even more innovative. You will see us lead with AI not only in our product, but also in the way we operate, support you, and help you navigate your own challenges and opportunities in this new era.
“To the people continuing at Optimove: we will invest more in giving you the AI tools, training, and capabilities you need to shape the next version of this company. This is a moment to move with focus, discipline, speed, and courage.
“To the people leaving Optimove: thank you. You helped shape this company. We are grateful for what you gave, and we will do our best to support you through this transition.”
In April, Optimove announced the pending acquisition of Sofia-based CRM supplier Smartico, though the financial details of the deal were undisclosed.
Optimove data insights on customer behaviours across key regions are regularly published on EGR.
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Co-founder and CEO Pini Yakuel insists the CRM giant is “acting from a position of strength” as he announces job cuts on LinkedIn
The post Optimove to lay off 10% of workforce as part of AI pivot first appeared on EGR Intel.