Google employee laid off during maternity leave after 12.5 years at company

The former Google employee shared an update about her unexpected layoff on LinkedIn. (Representational)

A former Recruiting Manager at Google, shared how she was laid off at the tech giant while on maternity leave after over 12 years at the company. Her story resonated with many in the comments, shedding light on the challenges faced by mothers returning to work after childbirth.

After dedicating 12.5 years of her life to Google, Nichole Foley found herself impacted by the recruiting layoffs that swept through the Sundar Pichai-led company. The timing couldn't have been more challenging, as she was on maternity leave, caring for her 10-week-old infant.

“I am heartbroken & devastated to say the least, especially while on leave with a 10 week old. I will however be forever grateful for all of my time at Google, and for the AMAZING people I was able to work with who I call my friends & more importantly, my family,” Foley wrote in an Instagram post that has received over 9,000 “likes”.

The post also revealed Foley’s determination to bounce back despite the adversity she faced. While she grappled with questions about her next steps, she held onto the belief that things would eventually work out.

“I am having a hard time wrapping my head around what is next or how I am going to interview & work elsewhere at this moment, but I know that things will work out, and I am excited to see what is next,” she added.
Foley also reached out to her professional network through her post.

She expressed interest in Staffing Manager roles in any industry, as well as Program Manager roles. She invited connections, even if there were no immediate job opportunities, emphasizing the value of expanding her network.

The comments on Foley’s post revealed that her experience was unfortunately not unique. Others shared their stories of being laid off during maternity leave and the mix of emotions that accompanied such an event.

One commenter noted that in the European Union, it is illegal to lay off someone during maternity leave, suggesting that similar protections should be implemented elsewhere. Another individual empathized with Nichole, sharing their own experience of being laid off by Meta while on maternity leave.

“I'm so sorry that this happened to you. I was laid off by Meta earlier this year while on maternity leave, and it was both terrifying and infuriating. I am fortunate to have landed a great new role, but I know how daunting those first few weeks were when I was still trying to process,” they wrote.