The creator of League of Legends (LoL) has a sexism problem. Now Riot Games is hiring a specialist to change the culture in the company.
What problem does Riot have with sexism? Riot has come under significant fire in recent weeks. Media reports revealed that there has allegedly been a culture of sexism at Riot Games for years (via Kotaku).
There is talk of a “Tech Bro” atmosphere, young IT men whose everyday language is permeated by sexual innuendos or genitals. It was allegedly common to ask someone with a professional complaint if they would feel better if someone “sucked their dick”.
A provocative topic was, for example (via Barry Hawkins), that in the recruitment policy it was stated: “A no does not necessarily mean no.” This phrase was even included in the official presentation – “No does not equal no” is also part of the so-called “rape culture” which relates to rape.
LoL developer wants to change
Riot promises to improve: In recent weeks, Riot has pledged to change. An initial action was a workshop only for “women and non-binary individuals” at PAX West. However, it worked only moderately well.
Now, Riot Games has invited Frances Frei, a recognized expert in diversity, to help change the company culture sustainably.
Who is Frances Frei?
- Frances X. Frei is an academic with a chair at Harvard Business School.
- Her focus is on helping companies become more diverse and inclusive. This is also intended to increase the company’s performance.
- Uber had also hired Frei as an expert in June 2017 to end its culture of sexism. Uber also had a “Tech Bro” problem.
This is what Frei does at Riot: Frei has been appointed as a “Senior Advisor” for the “Culture Strike Team”. She is an important consultant for the unit at Riot Games that is supposed to address the cultural change at the company that develops League of Legends.
LoL developer ready for “profound cultural change”
This is what Riot says: Riot states (via Riot), during her career Frances has helped companies change and realize their full potential. They feel honored that she has decided to work with Riot Games.
What does Frei say? Frei says she noticed in the first meeting that employees are speaking freely and putting everything on the table. Everyone is determined to change the culture. Every Rioter she has spoken with shows a commitment to change and more inclusion.
They want to address the issue not only superficially but bring about a deep change in corporate culture.
What is behind this: Interestingly, Riot is approaching this from a business perspective. They are in favor of more diversity because it also enhances the quality and performance of the company. Frei is well-known in the USA and she stands for this issue. Therefore, this is a personnel matter with significant external impact.
