Global Finance Restructuring in the Age of AI: Strategic Lessons from Google’s Pivot
- Jason Doucet
- Oct 2
- 4 min read
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the finance function, leading organizations are making bold structural changes to remain competitive. Google’s multi-phase transformation—beginning in 2024 and evolving through 2025—offers a compelling case study for CFOs and finance leaders navigating the intersection of technology, talent, and global operations (a).
At Doucet Global Strategies, we view this shift not simply as a technology story, but as a strategic inflection point. It underscores the need for finance leaders to reassess their operating models, organizational structures, and geographic footprints in light of AI’s accelerating influence.
Finance Hubs: A Familiar Model, Reimagined for Strategic Enablement
Google’s decision to consolidate finance operations into global hubs—located in Bangalore, Mexico City, Dublin, Chicago, and Atlanta—reflects a long-standing model in multinational finance (a). Traditionally, these hubs have served as centers for transactional efficiency and shared services. Today, however, they are being redefined as strategic enablers of AI-supported finance, designed to operate across time zones and deliver real-time insights.
This evolution raises important questions for finance leaders:
How will this affect reporting structures, tax compliance, and transfer pricing arrangements?
What cultural and operational dynamics must be considered when relocating or consolidating teams?
Will these hubs become the primary centers for AI development and support within the finance function?
Should finance hubs be relocated to countries that offer both lower operational costs and growing AI capabilities?
Recent moves by Google suggest the answer may be yes. In 2025, Google laid off hundreds of U.S.-based employees and relocated roles to India and Mexico, citing cost efficiency and proximity to developer communities. These locations are not only more affordable—they are also rapidly developing AI ecosystems, making them attractive destinations for finance and tech talent (b).
As AI becomes a core driver of finance transformation, CFOs and finance leaders must consider new geographies that offer both cost efficiency and growing AI capabilities. Countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Canada are increasingly positioned as viable alternatives for finance hub expansion (f)(g)(h), presenting cost-efficient options and demonstrating leadership in distinct areas of AI development and implementation.
These emerging destinations are not just cost-effective—they are strategically aligned with the future of finance. Relocating or expanding into these markets can support AI integration, talent scalability, and operational resilience.
2025 Developments: Efficiency, Agility, and Organizational Impact
In 2025, Google expanded its transformation efforts by streamlining managerial layers, offering voluntary exit programs, and relocating roles to cost-effective regions (b)(c)(d)(e). These decisions were not made in isolation—they were part of a broader strategy to reinvest in AI infrastructure and align finance operations with long-term innovation goals.
For finance leaders, the implications are clear:
Efficiency gains must be balanced with talent retention and cultural integration.
Relocation decisions must account for regulatory environments, tax exposure, and intercompany pricing models.
Organizational agility is no longer optional—it is a prerequisite for strategic relevance.
Strategic Considerations for CFOs and Finance Executives
Restructuring finance operations in response to AI requires more than technology adoption. It demands a holistic approach that considers:
Organizational design: How roles, teams, and reporting lines are structured to support AI-enabled workflows.
Cross-border planning: Including tax implications, transfer pricing, and compliance across jurisdictions.
Change management: Supporting employees through transitions, relocations, and evolving expectations.
Cultural alignment: Ensuring that new hubs foster collaboration, innovation, and resilience.
These considerations are especially critical for firms operating across multiple geographies or entering new markets.
Conclusion
Google’s restructuring offers a timely reminder that the future of finance is not only digital—it is global, agile, and deeply human. As AI continues to reshape the landscape, finance leaders must lead with clarity, empathy, and strategic foresight. The decisions made today about structure, location, and talent will define the resilience and relevance of tomorrow’s finance function.
Strategic Guidance for Finance Leaders Navigating Transformation
The restructuring of global finance teams—especially in response to AI—requires more than operational adjustments. It demands a strategic lens that considers cross-border implications, organizational design, and cultural integration.
At Doucet Global Strategies, we work with finance leaders to:
Assess the strategic viability of relocation and hub creation.
Align finance transformation initiatives with emerging technologies.
Navigate the complexities of cross-border structuring, including tax and reporting.
Support change management and cultural adaptation across global teams.
These engagements are grounded in global experience and tailored to the realities of each organization’s footprint, talent strategy, and transformation goals.
What strategic questions are you asking about your finance team’s future? Let’s connect!
Sources:
(a) CNBC – “Google restructures finance team as part of AI shift, CFO tells employees in memo” Link
(b) CNBC – “Google lays off hundreds of ‘Core’ employees, moves some positions to India and Mexico” Link
(c) CNBC – “Google has eliminated 35% of managers overseeing small teams in past year, exec says” Link
(d) CNBC – “Google announces layoffs in its HR, cloud units as part of ongoing cost cuts” Link
(e) CNBC – “Google’s new CFO makes earnings call debut, says company can ‘push a little further’ on cost cuts” Link
(f) Why Vietnam is the Next AI Talent Hub: A Strategic Guide for Global Businesses Link
(g) DEPDev: PH harnessing AI for innovation, digital transformation Link
(h) KPMG: Canadian companies are leaders in using AI in finance Link
About the Author
Jason Doucet - Principal Advisor & Founder, Doucet Global Strategies
Jason Doucet, CPA, is the founder of Doucet Global Strategies, a consultancy specializing in strategic advisory for globally operating organizations. With deep expertise in international business, cross-border taxation, and governance, Jason supports multinational enterprises, NGOs, and institutional investors with high-level, tailored solutions.
