EA Mandates Office Return, Halts Remote Hiring

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a significant shift in its work policy, moving away from remote work to a full return to office environment. In an email sent to employees, which was viewed by IGN, CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the benefits of in-person work, 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 outlined that the new "hybrid work" model would require employees to be in their local office a minimum of three days per week, and that "offsite local roles" would be phased out over time.

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

• Changes will not take effect immediately; 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.
• Hybrid work will require employees to work from their local office at least three days per week.
• A new 30-mile/48-km radius around EA locations will be introduced.
• Employees within this radius will transition to the Hybrid work model, while those outside will be considered 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.
• Any work model exceptions and future Remote hires will require approval from a CEO Direct.

Several sources within EA, speaking anonymously to IGN, expressed frustration and confusion among employees. Some highlighted the challenges of long commutes, while others raised concerns about childcare and personal medical conditions that had been better managed with remote work. Remote employees outside the 30-mile radius expressed uncertainty about their roles if they were unable or unwilling to relocate closer to an office.

Remote work has been a staple in the video game industry, particularly since the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a shift to remote work for many AAA companies. Over the years, the industry saw an increase in remote hires and employees moving to more affordable cities, under the assumption that remote work would continue indefinitely.

However, recent trends show a reversal, with major companies like Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard facing backlash for mandating returns to the office. This has led to employee dissatisfaction and turnover, as workers grapple with the choice between relocation and job retention. EA's decision to follow suit and mandate a return to office aligns with this broader industry shift.

This announcement comes on the heels of EA's recent layoffs, which affected around 300 employees company-wide, following earlier cuts at BioWare and the termination of approximately 670 roles last year.

IGN has reached out to EA for further comment on these developments.