Goldman Sachs' annual culling of underperformers is coming earlier than usual this year

Core Insights - Goldman Sachs is shifting its annual headcount reduction process from fall to spring, focusing on vice presidents for potential cuts [1][8] - The bank's Strategic Resource Assessment (SRA) aims to identify and remove underperformers, with a target of reducing 3% to 5% of its workforce this year [5][8] - CEO David Solomon emphasized the importance of operating efficiency and cost management in a recent investor call, outlining a three-year program to optimize expenses and expand in strategic locations [4] Workforce Management - The annual talent management process includes a performance review system where employees are rated by peers and managers, with the bottom 10% being most vulnerable to layoffs [6] - The current headcount at Goldman Sachs is approximately 46,500 employees, meaning potential layoffs could range from 1,395 to 2,325 positions based on the targeted percentage [5] Organizational Changes - The focus on vice presidents is due to an increase in their numbers, leading to a situation where VPs are reporting to other VPs rather than managing directors [3] - The bank is also considering transferring some VPs to other offices as a cost-saving measure [3]