Microsoft launches voluntary exit program for up to 27% of workforce amid AI spending push
Microsoft announced a voluntary buyout offer covering about 60,000 employees in several countries as it seeks to manage costs while expanding its AI infrastructure.
Microsoft said on Monday that it is extending a voluntary exit offer to roughly 60,000 employees in the United States, Canada, India and the United Kingdom. The program targets staff at experience levels of 70 or below, representing about 27% of the company’s 223,000-strong workforce.
The move follows earlier cost-saving steps, including a voluntary retirement program announced in April and a layoff of 4,800 workers disclosed in July, as the firm ramps up data-center spending to meet growing AI demand from partners such as Anthropic and OpenAI.
"The Voluntary Exit Offer reflects an important part of how we're evolving our approach to change: creating greater flexibility and, where possible, more ways for employees to shape their next chapter," wrote Amy Coleman, executive vice president and chief people officer, in an internal memo.
Eligible employees must decide by December, with departures scheduled for Dec. 31. Some marketing, sales and engineering teams have opted not to participate. Microsoft did not set a specific participation target for the new offer. The company is set to release its third-quarter earnings on Wednesday.