EA Announces Full Return To Office, Effectively Ending Remote Work

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As a gamer, I’ve always looked up to Electronic Arts for their awesome games like Battlefield, Apex Legends, Split Fiction, The Sims, and those sports series I can’t get enough of. Now, it seems the team behind these fantastic titles is planning a change – they’re bringing everyone back into the office! Their CEO, Andrew Wilson, mentioned that this move aims to spark that lively, creative vibe that often leads to unexpected breakthroughs and unforgettable gaming experiences for us players.

As reported by IGN, Wilson communicated this change to the entire staff via an email dispatched on May 14th. In his message, he clarified that starting from now, “hybrid work” would mean spending a minimum of three days per week at your local office, whereas roles carried out remotely in the same location will be progressively eliminated over time.

In her subsequent message to staff members, EA Entertainment President Laura Miele explained the changes in our working structure as we transition from a decentralized system to a unified, worldwide business model across all departments. Here’s an overview of what she shared:

1. Centralizing key functions: To improve efficiency and consistency, certain core operations will be centralized.
2. Standardization of processes: To streamline workflows, standard procedures will be implemented globally.
3. Focus on collaboration: Encouraging cross-departmental cooperation to drive innovation and growth.
4. Embracing technology: Leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity and communication.
5. Fostering a culture of learning: Providing opportunities for professional development and continuous improvement.
6. Empowering local leadership: Trusting our regional teams to make informed decisions that align with EA’s overall strategy.
7. Communication and transparency: Regularly sharing updates, insights, and progress to keep employees engaged and informed.

  • 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.

According to a report by IGN, employees at EA are feeling both distressed and bewildered due to the unexpected shift in company policy. Some staff members may need to endure lengthy daily commutes, while others have voiced worries about childcare and managing personal health issues. Two unnamed sources told IGN that an email from Miele suggests that remote work exemptions for current employees will no longer be valid within the next 3 to 24 months.

EA has recently adopted a similar stance to Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard by scrapping their remote work policies. This move has been met with significant dissent both within and outside these organizations, leading to a rise in employee departures and unionization attempts.

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2025-05-16 02:09