While that headcount trimming continues, the Amazon thinking involves a broader rethink of how to rightsize the largest corporations. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy's note sent this fall to employees about corporate culture drew headlines for his five-day-in-the-office mandate. In general, the flatter structure is in, and there is now greater emphasis on individual contributors across corporations. "Amazon's slashing of manager roles isn't just about cost-cutting; it's a glimpse into the future of work. Technology is eating away at the traditional corporate ladder, and middle management is feeling the bite," Zafar said.

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Persons: Morgan Stanley, Morgan Stanley's, Jassy, I've, Andy Jassy's, Joseph Roh, Roh, Naeem Zafar, Zafar, isn't Organizations: Amazon, Neeley School of Business, Texas Christian University, Investor, UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, Northeastern University, America . Technology Locations: 1Q25, America