Google Launches Voluntary Exit Program for U.S. Employees
Google has initiated a Voluntary Exit Program (VEP) for its U.S.-based employees, specifically targeting teams in its Search, Marketing, Research, and Core Engineering departments. The initiative is not being offered to staff in DeepMind, Google Cloud, YouTube, or the core Ads Sales division, according to a report by tech news platform The Information, citing multiple employees familiar with the matter.
Nick Fox, Head of Google’s Knowledge and Information (K&I) division, explained the program in an internal memo: “For those who are struggling to align with our strategy, feeling a lack of passion for their work, or unable to meet expectations, this program will be seen as a supportive off-ramp.”
In another internal message, senior engineering executive Jen Fitzpatrick added, “Other teams at Google have seen positive responses to similar programs. There’s no substitute for the connection, collaboration, and rapid innovation that happens when we work together in person.”
Fox also clarified in a written message that the VEP applies to U.S.-based employees in the K&I division who live within 50 miles of a Google office but are still working fully remotely. These employees will now be required to transition to a hybrid work model, attending the office at least three days a week. “This is not a workforce reduction,” Fox stated, adding that roles left vacant through voluntary exits will be refilled and new internal promotion opportunities will emerge.
Google has said detailed information about the program will be communicated to eligible K&I employees by the end of the day.
This development follows a similar proposal made to employees in the Platforms and Services division (which includes Android and Pixel hardware) earlier this year. Those employees were later laid off. While it remains unclear whether the current VEP will lead to additional layoffs, Google is offering a severance package that includes at least 14 weeks of salary. Employees have until July 1 to opt into the program.
Meanwhile, notices issued to employees across several other divisions, including YouTube, state that those residing within 50 miles of a U.S. office must return to in-person work at least three days per week by September. Failure to comply could result in job termination.
