EA To Lay Off 6% of Its Workforce

Electronic Arts is the latest addition to the growing list of major companies implementing cost-cutting measures. As part of these efforts, the company will be laying off around 800 specialists.

Andrew Wilson, the CEO of EA, announced the news in a letter to staff, which was later made public on the company's website. In the letter, Wilson said that EA "is operating from a position of strength" but emphasized the need to refocus on projects that align with the company's strategy. These include developing games that foster large communities, utilizing social and creator tools to engage with those communities, and "creating blockbuster interactive storytelling."

As a result, some teams will undergo restructuring, which is expected to affect approximately 6% of the total workforce at EA.

"As we drive greater focus across our portfolio, we are moving away from projects that do not contribute to our strategy, reviewing our real estate footprint, and restructuring some of our teams," he said. "These decisions are expected to impact approximately six percent of our company’s workforce. This is the most difficult part, and we are working through the process with the utmost care and respect."

Wilson noted that EA aims to assist affected employees in transitioning to other positions within the organization. However, for those who are unable to find a suitable alternative role, according to him, the company will provide them with "severance pay and additional benefits such as health care and career transition services."

Earlier this quarter, EA started notifying its employees about the impending layoffs. According to Wilson, the company anticipates informing the impacted staff members until the early stages of its upcoming fiscal year, which starts on April 1.

The gaming and tech industries have witnessed several instances of mass layoffs this year. Companies such as Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and Unity have all announced staff reductions.

You can find Andrew Wilson's letter to employees here. Also, don't forget to join our 80 Level Talent platform and our Telegram channel, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, where we share breakdowns, the latest news, awesome artworks, and more.