Ubisoft Outlines ‘Structural Shift’ Following Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Two Senior Executives

Two senior Ubisoft executives were placed on istrative leave following allegations of sexual harassment, discrimination, and physical assault earlier this week: Tommy Francois, Vice President for Editorial and Creative Services, and Maxime Béland, the Toronto Office Vice President for Editorial and Works. According to Gamasutra, Béland has since resigned from the company while Francois remains on leave as investigations continue.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot outlined the company’s plans to improve their working environment and prevent future incidents of harassment, abuse, and discrimination. These include restructuring the Editorial Department, transforming their human resource processes, improving the ability of managers, and setting up a confidential online alert platform for reporting harassment and inappropriate behavior.

A female Head of Workplace Culture has also been appointed to examine all aspects of the company’s culture and suggest comprehensive changes that will benefit the company, starting with creating an international, diverse, and multidisciplinary working group. A new Head of Diversity and Inclusion position has also been created to improve diversity within the company. Both positions will report directly to Guillemot.

“We are not looking for a quick fix, but rather a structural shift at Ubisoft that fully aligns with our values – values that do not tolerate toxic behaviors and where everyone feels safe to speak out,” he says. “We must do everything we can to ensure no one is in these situations ever again. These concrete actions are just the beginning of profound changes at all levels. I am convinced that, all together, we will build a better Ubisoft for the benefit of all.”

Learn more about the company's efforts against harassment and discrimination on the company's official site.