At Playtonic, a gaming studio known for titles like Yooka-Laylee, a revolution is underway, led by Frances Williams, the energetic and forward-thinking Head of People. Since joining the company just over two years ago, Fran has become pivotal in steering the company’s culture towards one that nurtures and promotes employee wellbeing.
Fran’s journey to Playtonic was not straightforward. Originally from a fitness and wellbeing background, she was initially hesitant about entering the gaming industry due to its reputation for crunch culture, which contradicts her personal values. However, the studio director at Playtonic reassured her of their commitment to being different, and this promise of change was what ultimately persuaded her to take the role.
In her position, Fran acts as a liaison between the staff and management, ensuring that employee feedback shapes company policies. This feedback is collected confidentially and has been instrumental in forming the basis of various workplace initiatives at Playtonic. According to Fran, her outsider perspective was an advantage, enabling her to approach the studio’s challenges without the preconceptions that someone more ingrained in the industry might have.
One of Fran's first tasks was addressing the mental and physical wellbeing of the staff. Playtonic has since implemented multiple wellness initiatives, including ‘Let's Chat’ walks, where team members are encouraged to take walks in nearby green spaces to talk about anything from personal issues to professional challenges. These walks take place every other Monday, fostering a sense of community and open communication among the team.
Moreover, the company emphasizes holistic wellbeing, which encompasses physical, mental, nutritional, financial, spiritual, social, and emotional health. To cater to these aspects, the studio has assembled a wellness and events team that organizes monthly activities. There is also a ‘Playtonic Wellbeing Hub’ available, which provides resources and support across various areas, not just mental health. Importantly, the studio also offers two days of paid leave annually for employees to engage in volunteer work, aiming to boost morale and encourage a spirit of community service.
Playtonic’s overarching philosophy is encapsulated in a set of core values identified in the “Playtonic Promise”: Play, Trust, Optimism, Nurture, Inclusive, and Care. These values deeply influence the workplace’s atmosphere and are reflected in the company's thoughtful policies, such as offering a five-week paid sabbatical every five years, ‘Life Leave’ for significant personal events, and a no-probation period policy to eliminate job entry stress.
Despite the general sense of gloom enveloping the gaming industry due to frequent layoffs and studio closures, Playtonic has managed to create a stable and supportive workplace. Fran notes the importance of transparent communication in maintaining a healthy work environment, especially during times of industry turmoil. The company ensures all staff are well-informed about its financial health and future plans, which helps in mitigating uncertainties and maintaining a positive workplace atmosphere.
Fran’s advice for those aspiring to join the gaming industry—or any field, for that matter—is to prioritize both personal development and skill acquisition. She stresses the importance of being a good team player and maintaining a robust work ethic, qualities that are valued highly at Playtonic.
Fran reflects on her achievements with pride, especially in how she’s managed to reshape perceptions around Human Resources as a functional area within the company. From a department traditionally viewed with apprehension, it has been transformed into one that signals improvement and support, largely due to her efforts.
The impact of Fran’s efforts extends beyond mere policy changes—it's about enhancing the quality of life for everyone at the studio. Her work has not only earned her a reputation as a visionary in her field but has also won the studio accolades, such as the GamesIndustry.biz UK Best Places To Work Award in 2023.
Playtonic’s journey, under Fran’s guidance, shows just how much can be achieved when a company aligns its operations with its values, proving that the wellbeing of its people is not just good ethics but good business too. Through Fran’s story, Playtonic exemplifies how a healthy, vibrant workplace culture can drive a company to new heights.
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