Google offers voluntary exit option to employees not comfortable with faster AI pace

Google

• Google offers voluntary exit packages to select US business division employees
• Program excludes large customer sales teams to limit disruption
• Move reflects Google's focus on AI and adapting to a fast-paced tech landscape

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Google is offering voluntary exit packages to certain employees within its business division, according to a new report by Business Insider. The move affects select teams in the company’s Global Business Organization (GBO) in the United States.

In an internal email sent on Tuesday, Google’s Chief Business Officer Philipp Schindler informed staff that some roles would be eligible for a voluntary exit program, also known as a buyout. The memo, viewed by Business Insider, said the company is starting the year “in a strong position” thanks to employees’ work in 2025. However, Schindler also noted that the environment remains fast-paced and highly competitive.

“The game is dynamic, the pace is electric, and the stakes are high,” he wrote in the message.

Schindler emphasized that everyone in the GBO needs to be fully committed to the company’s mission, especially as Google continues to focus heavily on artificial intelligence. He said employees must be “all in” and ready to embrace AI to create even greater impact.

At the same time, he acknowledged that the pace may not suit everyone. For those who are not enjoying the current speed of operations or feel ready to move on, Google is offering a voluntary exit option with a severance package.

The program will apply to certain roles within the GBO in the US. According to the report, this includes employees working in solutions teams, sales, corporate development, and some other areas. However, not everyone in the business unit will be eligible.

Schindler clarified that large customer sales teams in the US and other customer-facing roles will not be included in the voluntary exit program. The reason, he said, is to limit disruption for customers. “While all GBO functions are essential to our long-term strategy, we’ve decided not to offer VEP for these particular roles to limit as much disruption to our customers as possible,” he wrote.

This is not the first time Google has introduced voluntary buyouts. Over the past year, the company has rolled out similar programs in other divisions. In June, some US-based employees were offered buyouts as Google tightened its return-to-office policy. In October, YouTube employees were also offered buyouts as part of a reorganization effort.

Google has not publicly commented on the latest development. However, the move signals that the company continues to reshape its workforce as it doubles down on AI and navigates a rapidly changing tech landscape.