Microsoft lays off 6,000 employees amid AI restructuring push — Director of AI among those affected

In one of its largest workforce reductions since 2023, Microsoft has laid off 6,000 employees—roughly 3% of its global workforce—as part of a major organizational shift driven by its AI strategy. The layoffs span all levels, teams, and regions, with even senior leadership not spared.

Among those affected was Gabriela de Queiroz, Director of AI for Microsoft for Startups. She publicly shared her experience on X (formerly Twitter), calling it “bittersweet news.” De Queiroz, who joined Microsoft in 2022 as a Principal Cloud Advocate and moved into the AI director role in 2023, revealed that employees were “asked to stop work immediately.”

In her post, she expressed gratitude for her journey and sadness over the departure of many talented colleagues. “These are people who cared deeply, went above and beyond, and truly made a difference,” she wrote.

While most exited immediately, De Queiroz chose to spend a little more time tying up loose ends and bidding farewell. “Showing up for meetings, saying goodbye, wrapping up what I could—that felt right to me,” she added.

Despite the setback, she maintained an optimistic outlook: “My smile, my gratitude, my belief that each day is a gift—that’s all still here.”

She ended her message with a note of solidarity: “To those also affected—you’re not alone. We are at least 6,000.”

The social media response was swift and supportive. One user commented, “Sorry to hear this, but I know something even better is ahead. You’re made for big things!” Another added, “If the Director of AI at Microsoft can be laid off, then nobody’s safe in today’s market.”

Microsoft, in a statement to CNBC, said, “We continue to implement organizational changes necessary to best position the company for success in a dynamic marketplace.”

The tech giant’s recent AI-centric reorganization suggests that even as companies double down on automation and innovation, human cost remains a stark reality.