Google offers exit option to HR team as efficiency goals grow

Google has launched a new “voluntary exit” program for its Human Resources team, known as PeopleOps, following a similar move in January for the group managing Pixel, Android, and Chrome. PeopleOps handles everything from Google’s well-known employee benefits to typical HR tasks like hiring, pay, perks, keeping staff happy, and forming strong teams.

In an email sent to workers on Tuesday, which 9to5Google reviewed, Chief People Officer Fiona Cicconi shared details of the voluntary exit plan for U.S.-based staff. Earlier this year, the voluntary exit program for the Platforms & Devices team—covering Android, Chrome/OS, Google Photos, Google One, Pixel, Fitbit, and Nest—came after merging its big software and hardware groups. The idea was to let employees who didn’t fit with Google’s goals step away, offering a smoother alternative to past layoffs.

This latest step follows a reshuffling in PeopleOps tied to a fresh strategy. In 2025, Google aims to keep its teams top-notch and boost efficiency—a focus the company has pushed for years. Updating HR methods is another priority. PeopleOps has always shown Google’s love for data and numbers in decision-making.

Along with this news, Google is adding new jobs in PeopleOps to match the updates.

A Google spokesperson told us today:

• “To help our PeopleOps team do creative work in the future, we’re adding new positions and giving U.S.-based staff a voluntary exit option with severance pay.”

The program reflects Google’s ongoing effort to streamline operations while keeping its workforce strong and adaptable.