Accounting giant PwC is laying off approximately 1,500 employees in the United States, representing about 2% of its U.S. workforce, a company spokesperson confirmed to Reuters on Monday.
PwC, which employs over 75,000 people across the U.S., said in a statement that the decision was made with “care, thoughtfulness, and a deep awareness of its impact on our people,” adding that historically low attrition rates in recent years had necessitated the move.
The layoffs in the U.S. come as part of a broader strategic overhaul within the firm. Just last month, PwC announced the closure of its operations in nine Sub-Saharan African countries following a strategic review. The affected countries include Ivory Coast, Gabon, Cameroon, Madagascar, Senegal, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Republic of Guinea, and Equatorial Guinea.
In a statement published on its website, PwC described the closures as part of a long-term review of its network structure and market strategy, particularly in regions considered high-risk or unprofitable.
The exits mark one of the most significant pullbacks by a global accounting firm in Africa in recent years. Reports from the Financial Times suggest tensions between PwC’s global leadership and local partners, stemming from directives to reduce exposure to high-risk clients, have contributed to a more than one-third decline in revenues in several markets.
Last year, PwC was also reported to be considering sharp staff cuts in China, particularly within its financial services audit division, amid a regulatory crackdown and a wave of client departures.
The developments highlight the growing challenges facing professional services firms operating across volatile markets, as global networks seek to streamline operations and mitigate risk exposure.