Ashraf Ismail stepped down from a top position at Ubisoft in 2020 following allegations of misconduct. However, it’s been revealed that he quickly managed to find a new job at one of Tencent’s subsidiaries.
Image source: Assassin’s Creed UK’s YouTube channel
As reported by Axios, Ismail was hired last year by Tencent’s subsidiary TiMi Studio Group. He is now working on a new game at the company’s office in Montreal.
TiMi is known for creating some of the highest-grossing mobile games, including Honor of Kings, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Pokémon Unite. The studio started its Western expansion last year, announcing a partnership with Xbox and opening new offices across North America.
Ismail reportedly had been involved with TiMi’s Montreal division since it opened in July 2021. The team consists of several other ex-Ubisoft devs.
A TiMi Studio Group representative told Axios that Ismail has “consistently shown an eagerness to learn and grow as both a team member and person.” “We strive to provide a safe, respectful working environment for all and will continue to do so as our team grows and expands,” the statement reads.
However, Tencent never publicly announced Ismail’s appointment. There are also no mentions of the TiMi work on his LinkedIn profile.
Ashraf Ismail worked at Ubisoft for 11 years, serving as game director of Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag and Assassin’s Creed Origins, as well as creative director of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Prior to that, he worked as an engineer and assistant producer at Electronic Arts.
Ismail was ousted from Ubisoft in mid-2020 following multiple misconduct allegations. He was accused of abusing his power and lying about his marital status while approaching female fans.
The harassment scandal at Ubisoft is not over yet. Despite the company’s promises to change the toxic work culture, employees continue to say there are still a lot of unresolved workplace issues regarding harassment, discrimination, and other misconduct.