Tobi Lütke

Mandated AI-first hiring policy at Shopify. Teams must prove AI cannot accomplish tasks before requesting additional headcount. AI usage now part of performance evaluations.

Published an internal memo on April 7, 2025 declaring "reflexive AI usage is now a baseline expectation at Shopify." Teams must demonstrate AI cannot do a job before requesting headcount, and AI usage is now part of performance evaluations.

Issued a company-wide mandate in April 2025 requiring employees to demonstrate AI cannot perform a role before requesting new hires, adding AI usage to performance reviews as a baseline expectation. Said: "Before asking for more headcount and resources, teams must demonstrate why they cannot get what they want done using AI." Framed Shopify as entering a phase where AI agents are teammates, not tools.

Lütke has styled himself after Elon Musk's anti-woke tech culture: described DEI programs as "side quests," celebrated Shopify's AI-first pivot in DOGE-style efficiency terms, and drew sharp criticism from 400+ Canadian tech leaders for rolling back Shopify's Build Black and Build Native diversity programs in early 2025. He has not made formal partisan political donations or endorsements.

Drove Shopify's dismantling of DEI programs in early 2025, shutting down the One Million Black Businesses initiative and Indigenous entrepreneur support. Described eliminated DEI programs as "side quests." X account shifted to endorsing Trump tariffs and DOGE content.

Took responsibility for over-hiring in 2023 layoffs (20% cut). But continued aggressive cost cuts in 2024. Sold logistics business.

Tobi Lütke Shopify 20% cuts but handled with transparency. Digital by default advocate.

Declared "digital by default" permanently in 2020. Closed most offices. Strong advocate for remote-first work.