❘ First Published: 2023-07-26T01:49:50
❘ Last Updated: 2023-07-26T01:50:02
Esports Engine, a major international tournament organizer, continues to feel a chill wind of change as it lays off 65 employees subsequent to its parent company being bought out by ESL.
On the first day of March, it was publicly stated that ESL FACEIT Group, one of the globe’s leading esports event organizers and production companies, had fully acquired Vindex, and Esports Engine by association.
However, in the months following the acquisition, Esports Engine has decided to discharge 65 of its workers in response to multiple downturns facing the esports sector.
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Today, I was one of the 65 individuals let go by Esports Engine. I’m heartbroken, and taken aback by the absence of any prior notice. To those I had the pleasure of working with, you are all exemplary.
— Ivy O’Shaughnessy (@Velocifloof) 25th July, 2023
On the 25th of July, several previous employees of Esports Engine publicly revealed via Twitter that they had been terminated by the organisation, with roles spread across various divisions such as production operations and design.
One of the early tweets announcing job loss was from Ivy O-Shaughnessy, a prior Program Operator with Esports Engine.
She expressed her shock and disappointment in her tweet by saying, “Today, I was among the 65 individuals who were terminated by Esports Engine. I am crushed, and I did not see this coming.”
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Numerous other former employees soon followed with their own revelations of job loss. Tori Lynch, one of the original crew at Esports Engine, was also among those who were let go.
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Got some unexpected news today, blindsided along with numerous other skilled individuals and am no longer part of Esports Engine, the company I assisted in founding and growing.
— Tori Lynch (@ToriHigh_5) 25th July, 2023
Lynch stated, “Received some unforseen news today, along with many other capable individuals, and I am no longer part of Esports Engine, a company I had a hand in creating and developing.”
Adam Apicella, a founder of Esports Engine who departed in March following the sale, stated, “Just got the horrible news. I can’t say much right now and need to tread carefully.” He further suggested those affected by the layoffs to reach out to him if they need assistance.
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The formation of Esports Engine was deeply rooted in the renowned history of MLG, with numerous former members partaking in the esports production company’s activities.
However, following the acquisition of MLG by Activision Blizzard to manage their esports leagues, many of the former members joined together to establish Esports Engine. They have been responsible for the organisation and broadcast of the Halo Championship Series, Fortnite World Cup, and Twitch Rivals, among other things.