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Google is ending its previous goals for increasing diversity in hiring, marking a major shift in the company’s approach to workforce representation. In an internal memo, Google-parent Alphabet’s Chief People Officer, Fiona Cicconi, informed employees that the company will no longer set aspirational hiring goals for underrepresented groups. “In 2020, we set ambitious hiring goals and aimed to expand representation by growing offices outside California and New York,” Cicconi wrote. “However, moving forward, we will no longer set aspirational goals.” This decision comes as Google reevaluates its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, citing compliance with recent U.S. Executive Orders and court rulings.
No More Aspirational Hiring Goals
In 2020, Google set ambitious hiring goals to improve representation, particularly by expanding its workforce beyond major tech hubs like California and New York. However, in the recent memo, Cicconi made it clear that such goals are no longer part of Google’s strategy. “Every year, we review the programs designed to help us get there and make changes,” she stated. “And because we are a federal contractor, our teams are also evaluating changes to our programs required to comply with recent court decisions and U.S. Executive Orders on this topic.”
The move aligns with broader shifts in corporate America, as several major companies adjust or scale back DEI initiatives. Google’s decision follows increasing scrutiny of diversity-focused hiring practices, especially for federal contractors. The company emphasised that while hiring targets are being removed, efforts to create a fair and supportive work environment will continue.
The move aligns with broader shifts in corporate America, as several major companies adjust or scale back DEI initiatives. Google’s decision follows increasing scrutiny of diversity-focused hiring practices, especially for federal contractors. The company emphasised that while hiring targets are being removed, efforts to create a fair and supportive work environment will continue.
Google’s DEI Programs Under Review
Melonie Parker, Google’s Chief Diversity Officer, has been tasked with evaluating the company’s DEI programs, training, and initiatives. The review will determine which programs are effective and which may pose risks under changing legal frameworks. “Melonie Parker and her team will lead on closely and carefully evaluating programs, trainings, and initiatives, and will update them as needed – including those that raise risk or that aren’t as impactful as we’d hoped,” Cicconi wrote in the memo.
Meanwhile, Google confirmed that its Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), such as the “Black Googler Network” and “Trans at Google,” will remain. These groups play a key role in shaping company policies and product development. Additionally, the company’s partnerships with colleges and universities for talent development will continue.
DEI Language Removed from SEC Filing
In a separate move, Google also removed a long-standing DEI commitment from its annual U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing. Previously, the filing stated Google was “committed to making diversity, equity, and inclusion part of everything we do and to growing a workforce that is representative of the users we serve.” A spokesperson explained that the decision was part of the company’s overall review of DEI initiatives.
