Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson saw his compensation package increase by $30 million in the last fiscal year, according to the company's latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Wilson's total compensation rose to $38 million, an $8 million increase from the previous year, which includes bonus payments and stock options.
The report highlights a notable disparity between executive and median employee compensation. Wilson's $38 million payout stands in stark contrast to the $126,612 annual total compensation received by EA's median employee, representing a ratio of 305-to-1.
Furthermore, the filing detailed that Wilson exclusively travels by private jet, a perk attributed to ensuring "his personal safety and that of his family based on threat intelligence." The report did not specify any particular threats but noted that these private flights extend to his personal use.
Other high-ranking EA executives also received substantial compensation packages. Laura Miele, President of EA Entertainment, earned $13.7 million. Stuart Canfield, Chief Financial Officer, received $11.3 million. Chief Legal Officer Jake Schatz was compensated with $8.4 million, and Chief People Officer Mala Singh's total compensation reached $8.3 million. These figures, similar to Wilson's, encompass bonus payments and stock options.
This increase in executive pay occurred while EA undertook layoffs across all four studios operating under the Battlefield Studios banner earlier this year. The company characterized these workforce reductions as a strategic realignment.
Despite the layoffs, EA's financial disclosure noted company highlights such as the successful implementation of its AI strategy and the financial performance of Battlefield 6. Miele recently commented on the company's AI initiatives, stating that they have fostered a "real rise in creativity" among developers.
Separately, EA's potential acquisition by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has cleared a significant regulatory hurdle with approval from the European Commission. The deal has not yet been finalized.