EA Mandates Office Return, Halts Remote Hiring

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a significant shift in its work policies, moving away from remote work to a full return to office environment. In an email to employees, CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the benefits of in-person collaboration, stating that it fosters "a kinetic energy that fuels creativity, innovation, and connection, often resulting in unexpected breakthroughs that lead to incredible experiences for our players." He defined the new "hybrid work" model as requiring a minimum of three days per week in the local office and announced the gradual phasing out of "offsite local roles."

Further details were provided by EA Entertainment president Laura Miele in a follow-up email, outlining the transition to a "globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model." Key points include:

• Implementation Timeline: Changes will not be immediate. Employees should continue working as directed by their Business Unit until further notice. Transitions to the new work model will come with a minimum 12-week notice period, with timing varying by location and communicated locally.
• 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 the local area.
• Employee Impact: Employees within the 30-mile 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 work model and future remote hires will require approval from a CEO Direct.

Anonymous sources within EA expressed frustration and confusion over the policy changes to IGN. Concerns include long commutes, childcare issues, and personal medical conditions that were better managed with remote work. Remote employees outside the 30-mile radius are worried about their job security if they cannot relocate closer to an office.

Remote work became widespread in the video game industry, especially post the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, with many companies adapting it as a long-term solution. However, recent trends show major companies like Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard mandating returns to office, leading to employee dissatisfaction and turnover.

EA's recent layoffs, including around 300 individuals company-wide, follow earlier cuts at BioWare and the termination of about 670 roles last year. IGN has reached out to EA for further comment on these developments.