Ubisoft has initiated a voluntary redundancy program aimed at reducing its workforce by 200 positions at its headquarters in Paris

Ubisoft's headquarters in Paris has been targeted for significant job reductions, with plans to cut 200 positions at Ubisoft International. They have initiated a voluntary redundancy scheme, which requires negotiations with trade unions. This reduction accounts for 18% of that unit's workforce, as reported by GamesIndustry.biz.

The news is part of Ubisoft's recent major overhaul, which included the cancellation of six games, postponing seven more, and a shift back to mandatory office work. The restructuring also included a "final" wave of layoffs and studio closures, aiming to achieve €200 million in savings. Ubisoft has reorganized into five "creative houses," each overseeing game brand groups, supported by a central studio and business division, all managed by headquarters. The current cuts target the headquarters, focusing on strategy, finance, and talent, with no impact on other French offices.

In a company statement, Ubisoft discussed its initiative for a Rupture Conventionnelle Collective (RCC), a voluntary mutual termination plan for up to 200 positions at its French headquarters. This proposal is still under discussion and requires an agreement with employee representatives and validation by French authorities. It does not affect other French operations or global teams.

According to French law, the RCC allows employees to agree to leave voluntarily with company consent, under terms set with union discussions. No mandatory redundancies have been mentioned, though a previous voluntary redundancy at Ubisoft's Massive Entertainment was later succeeded by further layoffs, leading to the shutdown of Ubisoft Stockholm.

French trade unions, notably Solidaires Informatique, are expected to strongly engage with these processes. The recent restructuring plan has been criticized, with claims that it sparked "anger and despair." The union labeled the return-to-office requirement as a veiled attempt to encourage resignations, while simultaneously creating highly-paid senior roles. They are currently in talks with staff and other unions about possible industrial responses.