EA Mandates Office Return, Halts Remote Hiring

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a significant shift in its work policy, moving away from remote work and implementing a full return to office environment. In an email to employees, CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the value 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 outlined that "hybrid work" will now require a minimum of three days per week in the local office, with plans to phase out "offsite local roles."

Further details were provided by Laura Miele, EA Entertainment president, in a follow-up email. She described the transition from a decentralized approach to a "globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model." Key points 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 work model transitions are implemented, 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 rule will be introduced around EA locations. Employees within this radius will transition to the hybrid model, while those outside will remain remote unless their role is designated as on-site or hybrid.
• The offsite local work model will be phased out over the next 3 to 24 months, depending on location.
• 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 that the announcement has caused upset and confusion among employees. Some are concerned about the feasibility of long commutes, childcare issues, and personal medical conditions that benefited from remote work. Remote employees outside the 30-mile radius are worried about the future of their roles if they cannot relocate closer to an office.

Remote work became increasingly common in the video game industry, particularly during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, when many AAA companies adopted it as a long-term solution. However, recent trends show several major companies, including Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard, mandating a return to office, leading to frustration and employee turnover.

This policy shift follows recent layoffs at EA, with approximately 300 individuals let go company-wide, in addition to earlier layoffs at BioWare and the termination of around 670 roles last year.

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