Esports Organization 100 Thieves Hit with Another Wave of Layoffs
Another blow has been dealt to the workforce of a major esports organization.
100 Thieves has recently undergone another round of layoffs, as confirmed by senior graphic designer Gregory “Seso” Ortiz. The exact number of employees affected by this round of layoffs is unknown, with only one other layoff being confirmed so far.
Regrettably, I am one of the employees impacted by the recent 100 Thieves layoffs. After nearly five years of working for a company that has given me countless cherished memories, it saddens me to say goodbye. Being able to serve as a Senior Creative for a childhood hero of mine is an opportunity I will forever be grateful for.
This marks the second round of layoffs for 100 Thieves within the past year. At the beginning of 2023, the organization had to let go of approximately 30 employees, including Chief Revenue Officer Matty Lee and several others involved in sales, marketing, content, and human resources.
In March, 100 Thieves CEO Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag expressed deep remorse and disappointment over the company’s decisions that led to such a dire situation for its employees. He admitted to feeling immense guilt and shame for allowing the team to reach this point.
These recent layoffs at 100 Thieves reflect the current uncertainty and economic turmoil faced by many esports organizations. The industry is experiencing what some refer to as an “esports winter,” with teams struggling to secure sponsors and achieve profitability. As a result, multiple organizations have been forced to downsize their operations.
For instance, popular North American organization Evil Geniuses also underwent a third wave of layoffs on November 1, affecting around 20 employees. Former staff members have also accused EG of creating frustrating working conditions over the past two years, while reportedly operating with a minimal workforce throughout most of 2023.
Update Nov. 2 3:11pm CT: 100T COO John Robinson has announced that the organization will be “spinning off” Juvee and the newly established game studio. Additionally, the overall size of the 100 Thieves team will be reduced. Moving forward, the team will prioritize its esports efforts, content creation, and apparel.
Today, we have made the decision to spin off Juvee and our 100 Thieves Game Development studio, while also downsizing the 100 Thieves team. These changes are necessary as we believe it is time for 100 Thieves to refocus on our core business and strive for excellence in fewer areas.
“As the economic landscape has evolved over the past two years, our business growth has not kept pace with the expansion of our organization,” stated Robinson in his social media announcement. “We can no longer sustain such a large workforce, and the responsibility for this falls on me and [Nadeshot].”
Source: DOTESPORTS
