The CEO of the video game publisher Ubisof announced on Saturday sanctions against several of the executives targeted by allegations of violence and sexual harassment, brought by employees or ex-employees. The investigation continues, and the president says he wishes for a structural change within the group.

The CEO of Ubisoft, a French video game publisher whose several executives from various countries are accused of assault and sexual harassment, announced Friday that a vice-president had resigned and that another had been dismissed for " inappropriate behavior ". In a message to the 18,000 employees of the group worldwide, Yves Guillemot said that Maxime Beland, vice-president "Editorial" based in Toronto (Canada), had resigned "with immediate effect". "However, we are continuing our investigation into the allegations brought against him," said the CEO.

Resignation and layoff

In addition Tommy François, vice-president "Editorial and creative services" based in Paris, was "placed on protective leave, pending the conclusions of the investigation concerning him", according to this message which AFP has got a copy. Another employee of the Toronto studio was dismissed "for having behaved contrary to what Ubisoft expects from his collaborators", reveals Yves Guillemot without further details.

"Other investigations are continuing, and will be carried out with all the required rigor," promises the leader. "We cannot tolerate inappropriate behavior in the workplace and we will continue to take disciplinary action against anyone who exhibits harassing behavior, discrimination or any other attitude that violates our Code of Conduct."

Implement "structural change"

The day before, Yves Guillemot had promised his employees a "structural change" within the company following this affair. The editor, one of the world's heavyweights in the sector, announced internal inquiries last week, as testimonies on sexism and attacks on women in this very masculine environment multiplied.

"I would like to say to those who have spoken or who have supported colleagues: you are heard and you are helping to drive the necessary changes within the company," added the CEO, promising "fundamental changes". implemented "very quickly, at all levels". "We are not aiming for marginal adjustments. What we want to implement is a structural change within Ubisoft, fully in line with our values ​​which do not tolerate any toxic behavior and ensure that everyone feels safe to express themselves, "insisted the CEO in his message.