KPMG plans 200 job cuts in corporate services as UK-Switzerland integration advances

layoffs would affect approximately 10% of the firm’s corporate services workforce, with roles across human resources, marketing, corporate affairs, technology and procurement expected to be impacted.

The latest restructuring follows a series of workforce reductions announced earlier this year, underscoring the continued efforts by major professional services firms to streamline operations amid changing market conditions and growing investments in technology.

In a statement cited by City AM, a KPMG UK spokesperson said the proposed changes are part of a broader review of the firm’s operating model as it progresses with its cross-border integration strategy.

The firm said the restructuring is intended to eliminate duplicated functions created through the UK-Switzerland merger, optimise technology investments and expand the use of offshore delivery capabilities to improve operational efficiency. Employees affected by the proposals will be supported throughout the consultation process, the spokesperson added.

KPMG UK’s merger with KPMG Switzerland officially took effect on 1 October 2024, following approval from partners in both firms.

The planned reductions add to more than 500 job cuts the firm has already announced this year. Earlier in 2026, KPMG eliminated 440 assistant manager positions within its audit practice—equivalent to around 6% of the division’s workforce—alongside 120 roles in its advisory business.

At the time, the firm attributed the audit reductions to lower-than-expected employee attrition and changing business demand, while the advisory cuts were linked to evolving market conditions.

The latest move reflects a broader trend across the professional services sector, where firms are balancing cost management with continued investment in digital transformation and artificial intelligence. Other Big Four firms have also announced workforce reductions in recent months. According to City AM, PwC is considering cuts within its audit business, while Deloitte recently sought to reduce nearly 200 roles in its audit practice.

The restructuring also comes after reports of employee concerns over communication during previous rounds of layoffs. Earlier this year, City AM reported dissatisfaction among some KPMG employees who said positive business updates had preceded announcements of workforce reductions, raising questions about transparency during the firm’s ongoing transformation.

As KPMG continues integrating its UK and Swiss operations, the latest proposals signal that organisational redesign remains a key priority, with the firm seeking a leaner operating model while adapting to softer demand across parts of the professional services market.