Microsoft targets Meta’s AI team with multi-million dollar pay packages

Microsoft has drawn up a “most-wanted” list of Meta’s leading AI engineers and researchers, part of a targeted push to recruit from its social media rival, as per a report by Business Insider. Internal documents show the company is matching Meta’s famously high compensation packages to compete for top-tier AI talent, claims the report.

The campaign comes as Microsoft’s valuation nears $4 trillion, buoyed by soaring demand for generative AI. While the company has laid off thousands this year, executives say overall headcount will remain flat — signalling that selective, high-value hiring remains a priority.

Meta has been aggressive in retaining talent, with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman claiming it has offered $100 million signing bonuses to some engineers. Reports suggest certain AI hires at Meta receive total packages worth $250 million. Microsoft’s own top-tier package — $408,000 salary, $1.9 million in on-hire stock, $1.5 million in annual stock, plus bonuses up to 90% — can be exceeded in competitive situations.

According to the report, two Microsoft divisions are leading the charge: Microsoft AI, run by former DeepMind cofounder Mustafa Suleyman, and CoreAI, headed by ex-Meta engineering chief Jay Parikh. Recruiters are now flagging “critical AI talent,” triggering a process that delivers the company’s best offer within 24 hours, as per the report.