Microsoft AI Chief Mustafa Suleyman claims most white-collar jobs will be automated in 12-18 months

Mustafa Suleyman, the head of artificial intelligence at Microsoft, has warned that most white-collar jobs could be automated by AI within the next 12 to 18 months.

Mustafa Suleyman says AI would replace most white-collar jobs

In a video interview with the Financial Times, he further disclosed that Microsoft has been pushing for a bigger share in the enterprise market with “professional-grade AGI (Artificial General Intelligence).”

Suleyman specifically cited roles that involve desk-based tasks from legal work and accounting to project management and marketing as particularly vulnerable to advanced automation.

“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,” he said, drawing a clear line between current human roles and the emerging capabilities of “professional-grade AGI” systems. 

However, this prediction goes beyond incremental productivity improvements.

Suleyman pointed to the rapid evolution of AI agents, software capable of handling multi-step workflows such as drafting contracts, analysing financial reports, and coordinating complex projects, as the real driver of disruption.

He believes that within a few years, these systems will manage substantial portions of organisational workflows independently. 

The Microsoft AI Chief also explained how the barrier to building customised AI models is falling.

According to him, creating a new AI model could soon be as simple as launching a blog or podcast, enabling tailored solutions for businesses and individuals alike.

"Creating a new model will be as simple as making a podcast or writing a blog. In the future, it will be possible to design AI tailored to the needs of every institution and individual on Earth," he said.

He added, “We decided that this was a moment when we have to set about delivering on true AI self-sufficiency."

Mustafa Suleyman further indicated that the new AI models from Microsoft may be unveiled in 2026.

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