Google Offers Voluntary Exit Packages to Employees as AI Becomes Core Business Strategy

Tech giant Google has begun offering voluntary exit packages to some employees as part of a major shift towards an artificial intelligence (AI)-led future. The move, announced through an internal memo this week, signals how the company is reshaping its workforce to align more closely with rapid changes in AI technology and business priorities.

In the communication to staff, Philipp Schindler, Google’s Chief Business Officer, said the company wants everyone to be “all in” on AI and embrace the pace of change. Those who feel they are not aligned with this direction or are ready to move on may choose to leave voluntarily with a severance package.

Why Google Is Offering Exit Packages

Google’s decision comes shortly after its parent company Alphabet reported record revenue of about $400 billion in 2025, its highest ever. Despite the strong financial performance, executives have stressed that future success depends on staying ahead in AI.

In the memo, Schindler noted that while the company started the year in a “strong position,” the fast-moving AI landscape means employees must fully commit to the firm’s evolving business model. Those who feel the pace is not right for them can opt for a voluntary exit programme (VEP) with financial support.

This programme is part of a broader trend in the technology sector as companies restructure to focus on AI-driven products and services. Other major firms such as Amazon, Microsoft and Meta have introduced similar initiatives as they redirect investments towards AI and automation.

Who Is Eligible for the Programme?

The voluntary exit packages are being offered primarily to employees within Google’s Global Business Organisation (GBO) — a unit responsible for advertising, revenue growth and business operations. Eligible roles include those working in solutions teams, corporate development and some sales support functions.

However, Google has explicitly said that large customer sales teams in the United States and other customer-facing roles are not eligible for the voluntary exit programme. The company explained this is to avoid disrupting ongoing customer operations and ensure continuity.

This approach differs from standard layoffs. The voluntary nature allows employees to make their own choice, supported by a severance package, rather than facing mandatory job cuts.

What This Means for Google’s Workforce

Though the packages are voluntary, analysts see this as a strategic tool that helps Google reshape its workforce in line with its AI goals. The company expects AI to play a central role not just in its products like search and cloud services, but also in how work is organised internally.

This marks at least the third time in recent months that Google has used voluntary exit offers as part of broader workforce adjustments. Earlier rounds included other divisions such as engineering and HR teams as the firm continues to scale its AI efforts.

For employees, the choice highlights a growing reality in the tech industry: as companies invest heavily in AI, roles that do not align with this focus may become less central, and individuals must decide whether to adapt or seek other opportunities.

What Comes Next

Google has said it will process voluntary exit requests ahead of an internal deadline later this spring, with severance and support terms tailored to length of service and role level. While no official company-wide layoffs have been announced, experts warn that if enough employees do not take the VEP, further restructuring may follow.

The announcement strengthens the rapid pace of change in the tech sector, where AI has become a defining force in strategic planning, workforce decisions and long-term growth ambitions.