Next Games confirms downsizing plans

Next Games has concluded consultation proceedings on its staff structure, it announced on Friday, as part of the review of its operational cost structure and the streamlining of its operational model.

The Finnish company said that as a result of the proceedings, which began on 17 January, it was now implementing a new organisational structure with the aim of decreasing time-to-market for its upcoming products, increasing performance, and improving its product development process.

As a result of the measures taken, it was scaling down its headcount from 143 as at year-end 2018, to 117 employees during the first half of 2019.

While some positions would cease to exist as part of the change, Next Games said it was also looking to hire key talent for certain specific positions during the first half of 2019.

The company was continuing to execute the cost review programme, which was expected to generate “significant” cost savings during the 2019 financial year compared to 2018.

Through the continued implementation of the programme during the year, Next Games estimated annual cost savings of between €4m and €8m during the full year.

“By ending the consultation proceedings with our personnel, we are moving to the implementation phase of our new operational model,” said Next Games chief executive officer Teemu Huuhtanen.

“The company is extremely grateful to have a very committed and highly-skilled staff.

“We will together continue our transformation into an even more agile and resilient team and execute on our mission to create long-lasting mobile entertainment.”