EA ends Remote Work, Mandates Return To Office
Video game company Electronic Arts told its employees that it was ending remote work and mandating an eventual return to office.
As reported by IGN, EA CEO Andrew Wilson informed EA employees via email of the remote work policy changes. Wilson said in office work is, “a kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection, often resulting in unexpected breakthroughs that lead to incredible experiences for our players.” He also said that hybrid work would mean at least three days per week in the office, and local remote roles would eventually be “phased out.”
IGN also reported that Laura Miele, EA Entertainment president, wrote that EA was changing from a “decentralized approach to a globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model.”
Miele also expanded on the policy changes, which will not take place immediately. The timing will vary, and any changes will come with a 12 week notice.
She outlined “a new 30-mile/48-km radius around EA locations.” Miele wrote, “Employees who live within 30-miles/48-km of an EA location will transition to a Hybrid work model. Employees who live outside the 30-mile/48-km radius will be considered remote unless their role is designated as On Site or Hybrid.”
Miele added, “Any work model exception and future Remote hires will require a CEO Direct’s /my approval.”
Confusion and change
Reportedly, many EA employees were “upset and confused.” Some mentioned “hours-long commutes,” as well as childcare arrangements and medical conditions. Others were concerned about the viability of their remote positions over the long term.
EA has recently laid off a few hundred employees, and is in the midst of a restructuring.
Many video game companies had previously allowed remote work prior to the pandemic. It then soared in popularity and became a common perk in the industry. However, other large game developers, like Activision Blizzard and Ubisoft, have recently moved back to in-office or hybrid models.
