'No matter how hard you work...': Microsoft AI Director Gabriela de Queiroz pens emotional note after layoff amid 6,000 job cuts

Microsoft began laying off around 6,000 employees on Tuesday—nearly 3% of its global workforce—in its largest round of job cuts in over two years. The move comes as the tech giant doubles down on artificial intelligence investments and aims to streamline operations by reducing layers of management.

The layoffs affect employees across all teams, levels, and geographies, with layoff notices already being issued.

Despite reporting strong revenue and profits for the January–March quarter—beating Wall Street expectations—Microsoft has joined other major tech companies in cutting jobs amid growing economic uncertainty.


Among those impacted was Gabriela de Queiroz, Director of AI at Microsoft. De Queiroz shared a heartfelt message on LinkedIn, expressing her sadness and shock at being laid off, despite her extensive contributions to the company.

"Bittersweet news to share: I was impacted by Microsoft’s latest round of layoffs. Was I expecting it? Maybe. These days, no matter how hard you work, how much you advocate for your company, or how much visibility you bring—none of that makes you immune to restructuring," she said.

Gabriela added, "Am I sad? Absolutely. I’m heartbroken to see so many talented people I’ve had the honor of working with being let go. These are people who cared deeply, went above and beyond, and truly made a difference."

She revealed that although employees were instructed to stop work immediately, she chose to stay on briefly to say goodbye and wrap up ongoing tasks.

Remaining optimistic, De Queiroz said she didn’t yet know what the future holds but trusts something good will come of the transition.

"I’m an optimist at heart. That hasn’t changed. My smile, my gratitude, my belief that each day is a gift—that’s all still here."

She also acknowledged the scale of the layoffs and offered solidarity to others affected: “To those also affected—you’re not alone. We are at least 6,000.”

Microsoft has not commented on individual layoffs but has confirmed that the job cuts are part of broader structural adjustments.