Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman has issued a stark warning: within the next 12–18 months, artificial intelligence could begin replacing a large number of white-collar jobs. And it won’t just affect tech workers. Suleyman says the wave of automation is likely to touch professions once considered secure — including lawyers, accountants, and other office-based roles — as AI starts handling routine tasks that were traditionally done by humans.
In a video interview with the Financial Times, Suleyman said Microsoft has been aiming for a larger presence in the enterprise sector with “professional-grade AGI (Artificial General Intelligence).” He explained that the system is an AI model capable of performing nearly everything a human professional can do. This technology would enable Microsoft to provide powerful AI tools to its customers, helping them automate routine tasks typically handled by office workers.
The remarks from Microsoft's AI leader come at a time when numerous companies are focusing on AI progress. He mentioned that developing new models will become simpler, and they will be crafted to meet specific requirements soon. Suleyman stated, 'Building a new model will be as straightforward as producing a podcast or composing a blog. In the future, it will be feasible to create AI customized to the needs of every organization and person globally.
Suleyman added that within two to three years, AI agents will become highly efficient at managing complex workflows. Matt Schumer, CEO of Hyperwrite, echoed the warning, saying those who ignore AI now may be left behind.
Suleyman predicted that the workforce across the globe will witness major changes in the near future, where every individual who does their job on a computer could be at risk of losing their job. The Microsoft AI chief further explained, "White-collar jobs, essentially those sitting in front of computers, whether lawyers, accountants, project managers, or marketers, most of these tasks will be fully automated by AI within the next 12 to 18 months."
Reports suggest that Salesforce, a cloud services platform in the US, reportedly dismissed up to 1,000 employees earlier this month as the company's CEO focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into certain positions. Similar reports have surfaced in recent weeks concerning major tech firms like Amazon, FedEx, and Ericsson.
Suleyman predicts AI will soon become easy to customize, comparing model creation to starting a blog or podcast. “Creating a new model will be as simple as making a podcast or writing a blog,” he said, adding that AI could eventually be tailored for every institution and individual.
He also expects AI agents to become more efficient in the next two to three years, capable of handling workflows for large organizations. Suleyman hinted Microsoft plans to build more of its own AI models to reduce reliance on OpenAI, saying, “We decided that this was a moment when we have to set about delivering on true AI self-sufficiency.” He suggested these models could arrive in 2026.