The publisher has also launched its workplace liability committee, which could be one of the last steps for Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard as head of the company.
We recently wrote about how Nugendo U.S. president Phil Spencer (Xbox) and Jim Ryan (PlayStation) have condemned Kotick. Bowser mentioned that he also calls for ESA action in this regard. Members of the Entertainment Software Association (directors of E3) include Nintendo and Activision Blizzard, and the organization now wrote in a statement to Gamesindustry:
“Any form of harassment, abuse or ill-treatment in the workplace is unacceptable and will never be tolerated. If allegations are made, those involved must make their voices heard. All charges must be acknowledged, thoroughly investigated and dealt with with substantive consequences. The viability of our industry requires that everyone in the workplace – and in our communities – feel valued and respected. As an industry association, ESA will convene its members to engage in dialogue and develop measures to ensure that these beliefs are met. “
Activision Blizzard’s board of directors, meanwhile, has announced that it has also set up a workplace liability committee to improve the work culture within the company. Initially, he will have two independent directors from Activision’s space: Dawn Ostroff, who will be president, and Reveta Bowers; Ostroff has been there as an independent director since 2020, as well as a content director and advertising expert for Spotify. Bowers has been there as an independent since 2018; previously spent 44 years at The Center for Early Education as a teacher and administrator.
The committee will be tasked with overseeing “the company’s progress in successfully implementing new policies, procedures and commitments to improve work culture and eliminate all forms of harassment and discrimination,” the communication said. “Management should develop key performance indicators and / or other tools to measure progress and ensure accountability.” In addition to Kotick, Julie Hodges (chief of staff, who joined in September) and Frances Townsend will expect a “frequent report” on the results achieved. Since October, Activision Blizzard’s board has met every two weeks to review progress on workplace culture, and you will also receive weekly written reports on developments.
Source: Gamesindustry, Gamesindustry
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