Electronic Arts–the publisher behind Battlefield, Apex Legends, Split Fiction, The Sims, and several popular sports series–has announced it is ending its remote work policies, and will be implementing a full return to office. CEO Andrew Wilson stated that this decision reflects the company’s desire to foster “kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection, often resulting in unexpected breakthroughs that lead to incredible experiences for our players.”
According to IGN, Wilson delivered the news to employees in a company-wide email sent out on Wednesday, May 14. In it, he explained that “hybrid work” will now be defined as a “minimum of three days a week in your local office,” while “offsite local roles” will be gradually phased out.
EA Entertainment President Laura Miele then sent a follow-up email to employees, clarifying what employees can expect as the company moves from “a decentralized approach to a globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model.” Below is the outline Miele included:
- 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.
As per IGN’s report, employees within EA are “upset and confused” by the sudden policy change. Some employees will now face “hours-long” commutes, while other have expressed concerns regarding childcare and their ability to manage personal medical conditions. Two anonymous sources reportedly explained to IGN that, per Miele’s email, existing remote workers will have their “exemptions” to return to office “sunset” sometime within the next “3 to 24 months.”
EA now joins Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard in the growing list of companies doing away with remote work policies. All four have faced sharp criticism from within and without the organizations as a result of these actions, and have generally seen an increase in employee turnover and employee unionization efforts as well.
