Group 1 - PwC has made significant job cuts in its Middle East operations, eliminating approximately 60 partners and 1,500 staff due to a ban by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) on new advisory contracts [1][2] - The leadership of PwC is undergoing a change, with Laura Hinton from PwC UK set to co-lead the Middle East business starting October 2025, indicating a strategic reassessment in response to anticipated revenue shortfalls [2][3] - The job cuts primarily affected consulting roles, especially those linked to transformational projects, highlighting the firm's previous involvement in major PIF initiatives like the Neom development [3][4] Group 2 - Despite the job reductions, PwC's overall headcount in the Middle East has remained stable due to new hires in areas with strong client demand, suggesting a strategic pivot rather than a complete withdrawal from the region [4][5] - As of the end of the most recent financial year, PwC's Middle East operations comprised around 500 partners and 11,000 staff, with ongoing recruitment for lower-level positions, indicating continued growth ambitions in the region [5] - The firm acknowledged the job cuts in light of a general slowdown in business, reflecting broader industry challenges [5]