Microsoft plans first-ever voluntary employee buyout; about 7% of U.S. workforce eligible for retirement support

Microsoft's voluntary employee buyout marks a significant transition for the company, being the first of its kind in over five decades.
The initiative targets approximately 7% of the U.S. workforce, specifically senior directors and below, providing retirement options linked to age and tenure.
The one-time program is available to those whose combined age and years of service total 70 or more.
Amy Coleman, Microsoft's executive vice president and chief people officer, stated, "Our hope is that this program gives those eligible the choice to take that next step on their own terms, with generous company support," according to a memo viewed by CNBC.
Eligible employees will receive specifics about the program on May 7. The company has not conducted buyouts of this magnitude before, reflecting its ongoing shifts in human resources strategy.
This approach may also coincide with Microsoft's broader adjustments in employee stock rewards, as reported.

Microsoft is set to introduce its first voluntary employee buyout in over 51 years, aimed at about 7% of its U.S. workforce. Eligible employees, primarily at the senior director level and below, can opt for retirement support based on a combined age and service of 70 or more years.