Andrew Wilson, CEO of Electronic Arts, has revealed in a company-wide email that the publishing powerhouse is pushing towards a full return to office for its employees, effectively phasing out remote working policies.
Speaking in the email, which was spotted by IGN, Wilson observed that in-person work sparks “a kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection, often resulting in unexpected breakthroughs that lead to incredible experiences for our players.”
The executive added that “hybrid work” will be defined as a “minimum of three days a week in your local office,” with “offsite local roles” gradually being phased out. Beyond that, Laura Miele, President of EA Entertainment, revealed in a follow-up email that EA is transitioning from “a decentralised approach to a globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model.”
Related Content — Upcoming PS5 Games 2025: The Best PS5 Games Coming Soon
- These changes will not take effect immediately. Employees should continue working as directed by your Business Unit until further notice, regardless of where you live.
- Work model transitions will come with a minimum 12-week notice period before any changes are implemented. The timing will vary by location and will be communicated locally with plenty of notice.
- Hybrid work will mean working from your local office at least three days per week-this aligns with what’s outlined in Andrew’s EA Action.
- We are introducing a new 30-mile/48-km radius around EA locations.
- What this means:
- 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.
- We will also sunset the Offsite Local work model. Depending on your location, this transition may take 3 to 24 months.
- Any work model exception and future Remote hires will require a CEO Direct’s /my approval.
IGN spoke to a number of anonymous sources within EA, who revealed that employees were ‘upset and confused’ over these changes, with some now forced to make hours-long commutes, while others expressed worries over childcare and personal medical conditions. Two sources revealed that existing remote workers would have their “exceptions” to return to office “sunset” in the next three — 24 months, as per the changes outlined by Miele.
[Source – IGN]