Automattic, the tech giant behind WordPress.com, WooCommerce and Tumblr, has commenced layoffs, with insiders expecting further cuts. Recent departures have affected the communications, social, and enterprise teams, alongside the WordPress.com division.

These layoffs follow a tumultuous period for the company, including a failed board attempt to oust CEO Matt Mullenweg in September, leading to a complete board turnover and the exit of key executives, including the CFO, interim CFO, and Chief Legal Officer.

Around the same time, Automattic’s Director of Communications, Megan Fox, cited her “unexpected end” and the elimination of her role. Meanwhile, the interim CFO Jeremy Klaperman’s exit, weeks after a board shakeup, has raised eyebrows, with Matt Mullenweg suggesting he may have been “offended” by the company’s decision.

Reports also indicate that internal communications were not always handled delicately, with Matt Mullenweg sharing personal health information in an internal Slack channel, causing shock among employees. Despite these events, Mullenweg remains focused on PHP, posting about the latest security issues affecting the internet.

Insiders believe the layoffs are part of a broader strategy to improve Q4 revenue figures ahead of a debt renegotiation in June, with the company planning to stagger these changes to provide better severance and more time for each employee.