Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a significant shift in its work policy, moving away from remote work and implementing a full return to office. In an email to employees, CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the benefits of in-person work, citing "a kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection" as key factors for "unexpected breakthroughs" that enhance player experiences. Wilson outlined that the new "hybrid work" model requires a minimum of three days a week in the local office, and "offsite local roles" will be phased out over time.
Further details were provided in a follow-up email from EA Entertainment president Laura Miele, who described the shift as a move towards a "globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model." Key points from Miele's email include:
- Implementation Timeline: Changes will not be immediate, and employees should continue working as directed by their Business Unit. Transitions to the new work model will come with a minimum 12-week notice period, with timing varying by location.
- Hybrid Work Definition: Employees must work from their local office at least three days per week. A new 30-mile/48-km radius around EA locations will define local offices.
- Employee Impact: Employees within the 30-mile/48-km radius will transition to the hybrid model. Those outside this radius will remain remote unless their role is designated as On Site or Hybrid. The "Offsite Local" work model will be phased out over 3 to 24 months.
- Exceptions and Future Hires: Any exceptions to the new work model and future remote hires will require approval from a CEO Direct.
Anonymous sources within EA expressed to IGN their frustration and confusion over the policy change. Some employees highlighted the challenges of long commutes, while others worried about childcare and medical conditions that had been better managed with remote work. Remote workers outside the 30-mile radius are concerned about their job security if they cannot or will not relocate closer to an office.
Remote work became increasingly common in the video game industry during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, leading many companies to adopt it as a long-term solution. However, recent trends show other major companies like Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard also mandating a return to office, resulting in employee dissatisfaction and turnover.
This policy shift at EA comes in the wake of recent layoffs, including around 300 employees company-wide, following earlier cuts at BioWare and the termination of about 670 roles last year.
IGN has reached out to EA for comment on these developments.
