Baker McKenzie to cut jobs in name of AI progress

Baker McKenzie is preparing to swing the redundancy axe through its business services departments, with AI apparently shouldering much of the blame for what could affect hundreds of employees worldwide.

The global giant has reportedly earmarked dozens of positions for elimination across various offices including London and Belfast, with research, marketing and secretarial teams squarely in the firing line. According to industry reports, the cull forms part of a broader operational review that conveniently positions artificial intelligence as both modernisation tool and convenient scapegoat.

The firm has acknowledged conducting a review focused on reimagining working methods and deploying AI-driven efficiencies, though it maintains the changes are about investing in roles that better serve client needs. Following consultation processes where applicable, certain positions will apparently be phased out while others undergo transformation – decisions the firm insists were not made lightly but deemed necessary for long-term strategic objectives.

AI’s growing body count

Baker McKenzie finds itself in increasingly crowded company when it comes to trimming headcount under the AI banner. Clifford Chance reportedly shed 10% of its UK business services workforce last November – roughly 50 positions – while Freshfields pointed to artificial intelligence when axing paralegals from its Manchester legal support hub in September.

Sources suggest the cuts at Baker McKenzie will affect fewer than 10% of business services staff globally, though that small-sounding percentage likely translates to a rather more substantial number of individuals facing uncertain futures.

Whether AI is genuinely driving these efficiencies or simply providing convenient cover for cost-cutting remains an open question – one the legal industry seems increasingly comfortable leaving unanswered.