Meta recently moved to lay off 3,600 workers has been followed by a significant bonus increase for its executives. In an SEC filing, the company announced plans to boost the target bonus percentage for named executive officers from 75% of their base salary to 200%. This change, effective from the 2025 performance period, excludes CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The filing stated that these “variable cash incentives” were designed to motivate executives and reward them for achieving company goals. The decision came after the board’s review of compensation practices in the tech sector. Meta executives’ total cash compensation was previously below the 15th percentile when compared to their peers in similar roles at other tech companies. The increase aims to position Meta’s executives in the “50th percentile” of peer group compensation.
Despite the bonus hike, the announcement comes just days after Meta laid off 3,600 employees, around 5% of its workforce. The job cuts were part of Meta’s strategy to streamline operations and focus on AI investment, with Zuckerberg describing 2025 as an “intense year” for the company.
Many affected workers, however, have spoken out against the layoffs. Kaila Curry, a former content manager at Meta, shared her frustration in a LinkedIn post, stating that despite receiving positive feedback and never being placed on a performance improvement plan, she was still let go.
The bonus increase has raised eyebrows, particularly as the company faces criticism for its handling of the layoffs while rewarding its executives handsomely.
-Agencies
