Google has intensified its return-to-office (RTO) policies, requiring remote employees within 50 miles of company offices to work on-site at least three days per week or face potential job loss.
The updated mandate, announced on June 13, 2025, primarily affects employees in Search, marketing, research, and core engineering teams.
Google has launched voluntary buyout programs for select US-based workers as part of its workforce adjustments.
These programs allow employees misaligned with the company’s strategic direction to exit with severance packages.
Google Work Model: New Return-to-Office Mandate
Google’s latest policy shift affects employees in its Knowledge & Information division, which manages Search, ads, and commerce operations.
Additionally, the new mandate applies to core engineering teams, requiring them to adhere to updated workplace guidelines.
Remote workers within 50 miles of approved Google offices must adopt a hybrid three-day schedule starting September 2025.
Those who choose not to comply will have the option to accept severance packages.
Senior executives have emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration, with Jen Fitzpatrick, Senior Vice President of Core Systems, stating, “When it comes to connection, collaboration, and moving quickly to innovate together, there’s just no substitute for coming together in person”.
Voluntary Exit Program (VEP) and Workforce Restructuring
Google has launched a Voluntary Exit Program (VEP) to provide employees with a structured departure option.
This initiative supports those who feel disconnected from the company’s strategy or are struggling with performance expectations.
Nick Fox, head of Google’s Knowledge & Information group, reinforced the company’s commitment to engaged employees, stating, “My goal is for every single one of us here to be all-in on building the future of our products”.
Google’s workforce restructuring began in early 2025, as part of its long-term strategic adjustments.
This follows the widespread layoffs in 2023, which resulted in the elimination of 12,000 positions globally.
Exemptions and Selective Enforcement
The return-to-office mandate does not apply to employees in DeepMind, Google Cloud, YouTube, and central advertising sales divisions.
However, YouTube has separately enforced office return requirements for nearby remote workers.
Executives have framed the policy as a cultural reset, prioritizing alignment, presence, and performance over flexibility.
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