Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman says white-collar jobs face rapid automation wave
Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman says white-collar jobs face rapid automation wave
Publish Date: 2026-02-13 03:53:00
Source Domain: www.storyboard18.com
Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman has cautioned that artificial intelligence could automate a significant portion of white-collar work within the next 12 to 18 months, as the company ramps up efforts to build what he describes as “professional-grade AGI.”
In an interview with the Financial Times, Suleyman said Microsoft is intensifying its focus on the enterprise market, developing advanced AI systems capable of handling routine knowledge-based tasks. These include functions traditionally performed by lawyers, accountants, project managers and marketing professionals.
Artificial general intelligence, or AGI, refers to AI systems designed to perform at or beyond human capability across a broad range of intellectual tasks. Suleyman argued that much of the computer-based work carried out in offices today could soon be automated by increasingly capable AI systems.
Rather than targeting individual job categories in isolation, Microsoft is building AI agents, software systems designed to execute multi-step workflows independently. Such agents can draft contracts, analyse financial data, generate reports and manage end-to-end digital processes with minimal human intervention.
The remarks come amid broader industry restructuring linked to AI-driven efficiency gains. Salesforce has reportedly cut around 1,000 roles as it pivots toward AI-led operations. Other large employers, including Amazon, FedEx and Ericsson, have also announced restructuring measures partly tied to automation initiatives.
Looking ahead, Suleyman suggested that creating customised AI models could soon become as straightforward as launching a blog or podcast today. Within two to three years, he said, AI agents may manage significant portions of institutional workflows, fundamentally reshaping how organisations operate.
On Microsoft’s long-term strategy, Suleyman signalled a move toward greater AI self-reliance. He indicated that the company plans to expand development of its own proprietary models…
