UK-based cybersecurity firm Sophos has confirmed that it is laying off 6% of its workforce, just two weeks after completing its $859 million acquisition of US cybersecurity company Secureworks. The layoffs, first reported by The Register, will affect approximately 6% of the combined workforce of the two companies.

In an emailed statement to TechCrunch, Sophos spokesperson Sara Eberle attributed the workforce reduction to "positions that are no longer needed when Secureworks delisted as a public company and streamlining duplicative roles as a result of the acquisition." The company declined to confirm the exact number of employees affected and would not disclose its current headcount.

This move comes less than a year after Sophos laid off 10% of its workforce in 2023, which the company said at the time was to achieve "the optimal balance of growth and profitability." The previous layoffs, which affected approximately 450 employees, were seen as a cost-cutting measure to improve the company's financial performance.

The acquisition of Secureworks, a US-based cybersecurity company, marked a significant expansion of Sophos' capabilities and reach. The deal was seen as a strategic move to bolster Sophos' position in the global cybersecurity market. However, the integration of the two companies has led to redundant roles, resulting in the layoffs.

The layoffs are likely to have a significant impact on the cybersecurity industry, particularly in the UK and US. The move may also raise concerns about the company's ability to retain talent and maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to shift, companies like Sophos must adapt to stay ahead of emerging threats and customer needs.

Industry experts are watching the situation closely, with some expressing concerns about the potential disruption to Sophos' operations and customer relationships. "The layoffs will undoubtedly have an impact on Sophos' ability to deliver services to its customers," said one industry insider. "The company will need to move quickly to reassure customers and partners that it remains committed to providing high-quality cybersecurity solutions."

Despite the challenges posed by the layoffs, Sophos remains a significant player in the global cybersecurity market. The company's acquisition of Secureworks has expanded its capabilities and reach, and it is well-positioned to capitalize on growing demand for cybersecurity solutions. However, the layoffs serve as a reminder of the need for companies to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer needs.

In the coming months, Sophos will need to navigate the challenges posed by the layoffs and integration of Secureworks. The company's ability to retain talent, maintain customer relationships, and stay ahead of emerging threats will be critical to its long-term success. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, Sophos' response to these challenges will be closely watched by industry observers and customers alike.