Former Disney exec Jessica Martinez joins Blizzard as first head of culture to resolve workplace issues
Blizzard Entertainment has hired its first head of culture. Jessica Martinez will be responsible for resolving workplace issues following multiple harassment and misconduct allegations.
This appointment comes as Blizzard’s initiative to create a “more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture where people at every level can learn, grow, and bring their most creative selves to their work,” the studio said in a statement.
Martinez spent 14 years at The Walt Disney Company, where she served as chief of staff and key strategic advisor. She was in charge of strategy, communications, and employee experience.
“When you create a people-first environment where teams feel safe, valued, and work together toward a shared purpose, everyone thrives — the employees, the players, and the business,” she said.
Blizzard faced harassment allegations last year when California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit against the company. Activision Blizzard was later hit with more lawsuits, including the one filed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). However, the company managed to settle the latter for $18 million in March 2022.