Klarna's CEO, Sebastian Siemiatkowski, has openly acknowledged that AI is already capable of replacing human jobs at his company, including even his own role. In an interview with Bloomberg, Siemiatkowski emphasized that AI can now perform any task that humans do, saying, “It’s just a question about how we apply it and use it.”
His remarks highlight a growing concern about AI's impact on the workforce, especially as more companies (like Klarna) integrate AI-driven technologies. Siemiatkowski pointed out that Klarna has already significantly reduced its headcount by using AI across various functions, including customer service, marketing, and legal tasks. For instance, the company's AI chatbot now replaces 700 customer service agents, resolving cases much faster than humans.
Despite worker concerns, Siemiatkowski remains pragmatic, noting that Klarna's staff is adapting to AI to optimize their work and boost their pay through enhanced efficiency. He explained that by reducing headcount, Klarna can shrink salary costs and share those savings with employees in the form of higher compensation.
However, AI's expansion has not been without pushback. The company faced significant online backlash after revealing that AI was reducing the need for photographers, despite clarifying that creative jobs would still require human input. Siemiatkowski acknowledged the emotional reaction to these changes but maintained that AI is transforming the nature of work, particularly in knowledge-based jobs, which he predicts will be hit hardest by automation.
While jobs that require physical presence, like driving, are seen as more secure, Siemiatkowski believes AI is already reshaping office-based roles. His comments serve as a stark reminder that AI-driven automation will likely be a broad, sweeping force affecting all industries in the years ahead.
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