EA Mandates Office Return, Halts Remote Hiring

Electronic Arts (EA) has informed its employees of a significant shift in its work policy, announcing the end of its remote working arrangements and mandating a full return to office. This decision was communicated through an email from CEO Andrew Wilson, as reported by IGN.

Wilson emphasized the benefits of in-person work, stating that it fosters "a kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection," which he believes leads to breakthroughs and enhanced experiences for players. He redefined "hybrid work" to require a minimum of three days a week in the local office and mentioned the phasing out of "offsite local roles."

Further details were provided in a follow-up email from Laura Miele, president of EA Entertainment. She described the shift from a decentralized approach to a "globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model." Key points from her email include:

• The changes will not be immediate; employees should continue their current work arrangements until further notice.
• A minimum 12-week notice period will be given before any changes are implemented, with timing varying by location.
• Hybrid work will require at least three days per week in the local office.
• A new 30-mile/48-km radius around EA locations will be introduced.
• Employees within this radius will transition to the hybrid model, while those outside will be considered remote unless their roles are designated as On Site or Hybrid.
• The Offsite Local work model will be phased out over a period of 3 to 24 months.
• Any exceptions to the work model and future remote hires will require approval from a CEO Direct.

Anonymous sources within EA expressed to IGN that the announcement has caused upset and confusion among employees. Some are concerned about the feasibility of long commutes, while others worry about childcare and medical conditions that had been better managed under remote work. Remote employees outside the 30-mile radius are anxious about the future of their roles if they cannot or do not wish to relocate closer to an office.

Remote work became widespread in the video game industry, particularly following the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated remote work as a long-term solution. Many companies hired remote workers, and some employees moved to more affordable areas under the assumption that remote work would continue indefinitely.

However, several major video game companies, including Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard, have recently mandated returns to office, leading to employee frustration and turnover. EA's decision aligns with this trend, despite recent layoffs affecting around 300 employees company-wide, following earlier cuts at BioWare and the termination of approximately 670 roles the previous year.

IGN has sought comment from EA regarding these developments.