In what could be seen as an emerging industry trend, International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) is undergoing a strategic transformation by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations—leading to the replacement of several hundred human resources (HR) positions. This move aligns with a broader trend in which AI is increasingly used to automate routine tasks, allowing human employees to focus on more complex, client-facing, and strategic roles.
According to Industry sources, the information technology major has already replaced at least 200 HR professionals with AI agents.
IBM’s adoption of AI in HR functions reflects this wider shift toward automation across the industry. The company is aiming to balance technological advancement with human capital development, ensuring its workforce is prepared to thrive in an AI-augmented environment.
On Monday, IBM Chief Executive Officer Arvind Krishna announced that AI agents have already replaced several hundred HR roles. Despite this reduction, he stated that the company’s overall employment has increased, driven by hiring in areas such as programming, sales, and marketing—roles that rely heavily on critical thinking and human interaction.
Strategic Rationale
The primary goal of AI integration is to enhance operational efficiency by automating routine HR processes such as employment verification and internal transfers. This shift enables HR professionals to redirect their focus toward higher-value, strategic initiatives that require human judgment and creativity.
Impact on Employment
IBM has projected that up to 30% of non-customer-facing roles, including HR, could be replaced by AI over the next five years. This estimate translates to approximately 7,800 positions potentially being impacted.
Nickle LaMoreaux, IBM’s Chief Human Resources Officer, emphasized that AI will not eliminate most jobs entirely, but rather automate specific tasks within them. She highlighted that very few roles will be completely replaced, with the majority evolving to incorporate AI tools that augment human capabilities.
While certain HR functions are being automated, IBM is simultaneously expanding in areas that require distinctly human skills. The company continues to invest in hiring across programming, sales, and marketing—sectors that remain less vulnerable to automation.
Source – https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2025/May/12/ibm-replaces-about-200-hr-roles-with-ai-agents