Microsoft Launches Voluntary Departure Program for 60,000 Employees Across Four Countries

Microsoft has implemented a voluntary departure program for up to 60,000 employees in the US, UK, Canada, and India, offering financial support and career planning resources. The initiative, announced to staff by Chief Human Resources Officer Amy Coleman, aims to reduce headcount without resorting to waves of mandatory layoffs.

Departments eligible for the voluntary departure offer include AI experiences, Copilot, CoreAI, Windows and Devices, Xbox, finance, and human resources. Some units, such as Cloud + AI, MicrosoftAI, and legal affairs, are participating partially. In contrast, marketing, commercial business, exploration and quantum, and security teams have been excluded from the scope.

This step follows a recent wave of 4,800 layoffs that primarily affected Xbox and commercial sales. It is noted that this new offer, which is not based on age, seniority, or performance, may open the door for similar offers to be evaluated in the future based on business needs.