Microsoft Announces Return-to-Office Plan for Puget Sound Employees
REDMOND, WA – January 26, 2024 – Microsoft today detailed a phased return to in-office work, beginning with employees in the Puget Sound region. The company expects individuals living within 50 miles of a Microsoft office to work onsite three days per week,starting by the end of February 2026.
This shift marks a significant update to Microsoft’s flexible work policies, initially adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The move aims to balance the benefits of in-person collaboration with employee preferences for flexibility, while also bolstering workplace safety and security.Puget Sound-area employees will receive personalized emails today outlining further details and are encouraged to discuss implementation plans with their managers and teams. Requests for exceptions are due by Friday, September 19.
Microsoft managers have been directed to resources on the Managers@Microsoft SharePoint site to support their teams through this transition. While the Puget Sound region is the initial focus, the company plans to announce timelines for other U.S. office locations soon, with international planning beginning in 2026. Details and ongoing updates are available on the Flexible Work at Microsoft SharePoint.
According to the announcement from Amy Hood, employees outside the Puget Sound area should await further communication from their Executive Vice Presidents (EVPs) before taking any action. Each business unit will have the autonomy to tailor the policy to best suit its needs, potentially resulting in variations from the company-wide expectations.
