This time last year, there were 9 concierges, including the chef concierge, at the San Francisco property. The company laid off 3, including one Les Clefs d'Or concierge 3 months ago. Two weeks ago, they laid off the chef concierge, a Les Clefs d'Or with 20+ years experience. Management told staff they could accept a transfer to the front desk at reduced pay or take a layoff. Two accepted the layoff, the assistant chef went on bereavement leave for 5 weeks, and one went on holiday for 2 weeks. The concierge desk is being closed and the remaining staff will work at the front desk (do the math - how many is that?).
This is no rumour, this is fact. You can walk in the front door, up the elevator to the 5th floor lobby and see for yourself.

Now, for the rumour - the hotel owner is in financial straits and forced this on Four Season...not only in San Francisco but in Miami (both owned by the same company).