Archive · 7 Aug 2025
AI Startup Cognition Mandates Long Hours or Resignation
An AI startup called Cognition is making a big demand of its employees.
They want everyone to work very long hours, including weekends.
The company's boss, Scott Wu, says they don't believe in separating work and life.
Employees have to choose: work all the time or take a payment and leave by August 10th.
Cognition bought another company, Windsurf, and has already let some people go.
The buyout deal includes extra money for those who decide to leave.
AI startup Cognition demands employees work 80 hours/week or quit.
Employees must decide by August 10th to accept the conditions or take a buyout.
The company, led by CEO Scott Wu, doesn't believe in work-life balance.
Cognition acquired Windsurf and previously laid off 30 employees.
Buyout offers include a nine-month salary, exceeding market norms.
- Who
- Cognition and its employees, led by CEO Scott Wu.
- What
- Cognition, an AI startup, demands employees work extended hours or leave.
- When
- Employees must decide by August 10th.
- Where
- At Cognition, an AI startup.
- Why
- The company prioritizes work above all else to achieve its goals.
Company View
Employee Perspective
Work-Life Balance
Company View
Prioritizing work above all aspects of life.
Employee Perspective
Advocating for work-life balance and employee well-being.
- Company
- Cognition
- Industry
- AI
- CEO
- Scott Wu
- Employee Ultimatum
- Work 80 hours/week or leave
- Buyout Offer
- Nine-month salary
- Deadline
- August 10th