Google Implements Widespread 'Buyouts' Targeting Underperformers

Google is offering buyouts to employees in several departments, according to reports by IT-focused media outlets such as The Information on June 10 (local time).

Reuters Yonhap News

On this day, Google proposed voluntary buyouts to employees across various departments, including Knowledge & Information (K&I), Engineering, Marketing, Research, and Communications. The Knowledge & Information department encompasses the Search, Ads, and Commerce divisions, and has about 20,000 employees.

Google stated, "Earlier this year, some teams introduced a voluntary resignation program for U.S.-based employees," and added, "Currently, more departments are adopting this program to help teams focus on their work."

Nick Fox, head of the Knowledge & Information department, said in an email to employees on this day, "If you are passionate about your work, energized by future opportunities, and performing well, I hope you do not accept this offer," adding, "We have ambitious plans and a lot of work to do." However, he also noted, "This program provides a path for those who feel it does not align with their strategy, are not energized by their work, or are struggling to meet expectations in their roles, to receive support in leaving."

The scale of employees eligible for this buyout program has not been disclosed.

Since conducting a large-scale layoff of 12,000 employees in 2023, Google has continued to make partial workforce reductions, targeting underperformers and others. In April, Google cut hundreds of employees through voluntary buyouts in areas such as the Android platform, Pixel phone, and Chrome browser divisions. Google Chief Financial Officer Anat Ashkenazi stated in October last year that, with increased investment in AI infrastructure this year, cost reduction would be the company's top priority.