KPMG plans to lay off hundreds of workers who is likely to be impacted? Everything we know so far

By Admin

28 Mar, 2026

Introduction: A Major Shift in the Consulting Industry

The global consulting and accounting industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and recent developments at KPMG highlight this shift. The firm’s UK division has alerted hundreds of employees about potential layoffs, signaling changing market conditions and evolving workforce demands.

This move reflects broader trends across the consulting sector, where firms are adjusting to economic pressures and technological disruption.

KPMG Layoffs: What Has Happened So Far

According to reports, KPMG’s UK unit has informed nearly 600 employees within its audit division that their roles are at risk. These employees have received internal communication indicating that layoffs will depend on the outcome of an ongoing redundancy consultation process.

If the consultation proceeds as expected, up to 440 employees could ultimately exit the business. This represents a notable restructuring effort within the firm’s audit workforce.

Which Roles Are Most Affected?

The layoffs are not random they are targeted.

The majority of impacted employees are:

• Assistant managers

• Qualified accountants

• Professionals within the audit division

Overall, the proposed cuts could affect around 6% of the division’s total workforce of approximately 7,100 employees. This indicates a focused restructuring rather than a widespread downsizing across all departments.

Why Is KPMG Laying Off Staff?

KPMG has cited market conditions as the primary reason behind this decision.

According to a company spokesperson:

• Attrition rates have been unusually low in certain audit areas

• Workforce levels have remained high despite reduced demand

• The firm is aiming to “right-size” specific segments

In simpler terms, fewer employees are leaving voluntarily, leading to an oversupply of staff in some departments. As a result, KPMG is adjusting its workforce to align with current business needs.

The company has emphasized that this decision was not taken lightly, underlining the seriousness of the situation.

Industry-Wide Trend: Consulting Firms Cutting Costs

KPMG is not alone in this move. Several major consulting firms are also rethinking their workforce strategies.

McKinsey & Company

The firm is reportedly considering layoffs in non-client-facing roles, potentially impacting up to 10% of its workforce. These reductions could occur gradually over the next 18 to 24 months.

PwC

PwC has taken a different approach, focusing on technological transformation. The company has warned that employees who fail to adopt artificial intelligence tools may risk being replaced.

Its CEO, Paul Griggs, emphasized that being “AI-first” is no longer optional, especially for senior professionals.

The Bigger Picture: AI and the Future of Consulting

The consulting industry is increasingly being reshaped by artificial intelligence.

AI is now capable of handling tasks such as:

• Accounting and auditing processes

• Data analysis and research

• Complex business problem-solving

As a result, consulting is considered one of the most exposed white-collar sectors when it comes to automation.

Firms are now prioritizing:

• Efficiency over expansion

• Technology adoption over traditional roles

• Agile workforce structures

This shift is forcing professionals to continuously upgrade their skills to remain relevant.

What This Means for Employees

The current wave of layoffs highlights several important takeaways for professionals in consulting and finance:

• Upskilling in AI and digital tools is becoming essential

• Job security is increasingly tied to adaptability

• Traditional roles are evolving rapidly

Employees who embrace change and technological innovation are more likely to remain competitive in this shifting landscape.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Consulting Industry

KPMG’s planned layoffs are more than just a company-specific decision they reflect a broader transformation across the consulting world.

As firms like KPMG, McKinsey, and PwC adjust to economic pressures and technological advancements, the industry is entering a new phase defined by efficiency, innovation, and adaptability.

For professionals, the message is clear: the future belongs to those who are ready to evolve with the industry.