YouTube has announced a major internal reorganisation aimed at deepening its focus on artificial intelligence (AI), offering voluntary buyouts to select U.S.-based employees.
The move, disclosed in an internal memo by CEO Neal Mohan, marks the first significant restructuring of YouTube’s product division in nearly a decade.
The company emphasized that the buyouts are entirely voluntary and that no roles are being eliminated as part of the transition.
A Strategic Shift Toward AI
In his message to employees, Neal described AI as the “next frontier” for YouTube, with the potential to transform every aspect of the platform.
The reorganisation is designed to enable faster decision-making and execution across teams, while aligning the company’s structure with its evolving priorities.
To support this shift, YouTube will reorganize its product teams into three distinct divisions: Viewer Products, Creator and Community Products, and Subscription Products.
Each division will report directly to Neal, streamlining leadership and accountability. The changes are scheduled to take effect on November 5, 2025.
YouTube Voluntary Exit Program Details
The voluntary exit program is being offered to select employees in the United States.
The company offers severance packages to employees who may be seeking new challenges outside the organization.
Neal stated, “We understand some of you may be ready for a new challenge, so we’ve decided now is the right time to offer a voluntary exit program.”
The company clarified that this initiative is not a layoff. Affected employees are free to opt in based on their personal and professional goals.
This approach reflects a broader trend in the tech industry.
Companies are increasingly using voluntary buyouts to manage workforce transitions without resorting to mass layoffs.
It also signals YouTube’s intent to reshape its workforce in line with its AI ambitions. At the same time, the company aims to maintain transparency and uphold employee choice.
Leadership and Operational Changes
As part of the reorganisation, Christian Oestlien will lead the Subscription Products division.
The Viewer Products team will focus on enhancing user experience through improvements in search, discovery, engagement, and living room viewing.
The Creator and Community Products division will prioritize tools and features that support content creators and foster community interaction.
This restructuring will help YouTube respond more effectively to the rapid evolution of AI technologies.
It will also support their application in content recommendation, moderation, and monetization.
It also aligns with parent company Google’s broader push to integrate AI across its platforms.
CEO Sundar Pichai has emphasized this strategic focus in recent communications.
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