Toxic work environment and a narcissistic CEO - AVOID AT ALL COSTS.
Pros
The moment you hand in your notice. However, it is possible you'll be forced to sit through an 'exit interview' AKA a personal attack where the manager refuses to admit any wrongdoing. So I'll say the second you walk out the door and never have to return.
Cons
It is difficult to view Allegra as a company as it lacks any structure, support or even a HR department (you are expected to feel comfortable discussing your grievances with the CEO, which is ironic considering he is the root of all dysfunction). If you are expecting a workplace where you will be treated like an adult and valued for your contribution, Allegra is NOT the company for you. Here's what you can expect instead.. - A vindictive CEO that hides behind the facade of being a good person because he founded a charity. - Nothing remains confidential. A number of staff are dealing with personal issues and unprofessional comments are made by management behind their backs. I recall the CEO stating in front of other employees that he 'wouldn't leave his wallet' around a particular member of staff. - A visible hierarchy. Employee salaries vary and this isn't based on their contribution but whether they are considered a favourite. If you are not willing to feed into the ego's of management, you will be excluded from company events. Your toilet breaks and lunches will be timed whilst favoured employees can take a 2-hour break. - No flexibility. If there is a transport strike and you can easily do your WFH, think again. You will be travelling 2/3 hours to make it into the office. - You are not allowed an opinion. All employees should offer minimal input and expect to be micro-managed. - Poor communication and bad leadership. Lack of clarity around projects and mixed messages, making it impossible to successfully complete a task (yet this will be your fault, you should be telepathic). It is a constant "blame game". - A lack of employee growth and development opportunities. You'll be lucky if you are even doing the job you signed up for. Working at Allegra is an experience like no other. From being chastised for wanting to leave work on-time or told that 'you have no human decency' if you are unwilling to explain the reasons you need to take annual leave. Management complain that employees are unmotivated and under-delivering but refuse to believe it stems from them. Negativity breeds negativity. The high staff turnover this year alone says it all.