Activision Blizzard re-elects Bobby Kotick as CEO

Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick has been re-elected by the company’s board of directors, despite being shrouded in controversy.

It’s no secret that Activision Blizzard has been buried deep with accusations of harassment, bullying and discrimination within its workplace. Overseeing Activision during this time as CEO has been none other than Bobby Kotick.

Activision Blizzard suite
Credit: Activision Blizzard

Despite the overwhelming claims, it was reported in April the possibility of Kotick leaving the company hadn’t been discussed. This is in spite of the pending acquisition by Microsoft being approved by stockholders.

Activision Stockholders voted

Furthermore, over 1,300 Activision Blizzard employees signed a petition demanding that Kotick resigns from the company. Microsoft’s acquisition is expected to be finalised in 2023, and Kotick is believed to resign when that time comes. However, I suspect if that time comes, he will be the recipient of a hefty payoff.

Activision Blizzard and Microsoft Acquisition
Credit: Microsoft

Unfortunately, following an annual shareholder meeting on June 21st, Activision Blizzard’s board of directors voted to keep Kotick in power for the foreseeable future.

An “Investigation” was conducted

This news is in wake of a recent investigation by Activision Blizzard investigating Activision Blizzard and found no evidence of harassment as well as discrimination within its workplace. Activision Blizzard released a statement detailing the investigation that was conducted by itself.

Contrary to many of the allegations, the Board and its external advisors have determined that there is no evidence to suggest that Activision Blizzard senior executives ever intentionally ignored or attempted to downplay the instances of gender harassment that occurred and were reported,” claims the report.

If any of the topics discussed in this article have negatively impacted you, there are people out there who can help.

Safe in Our World
The Calm Zone
MIND
Samaritans
Rethink
Mental Health America

Featured Image Credit: Activision/Source: Activision