Needs Improvement in Leadership or Just Plain Needs Leadership
Pros
If you are considering a job with Ascend, the main pro is that you will likely have a very committed, ethical and hardworking group of co-workers. More often than not, co-workers look out for each other and stay focused on the success of the team as a whole. As far as the "ground troops" are concerned, I never worked with a better group of people. So, if the job you're considering with Ascend is a non-managerial or laboratory technical position (CLS, MLT, etc), you will might enjoy working for this company as long as you don't have to interact directly with the executive management. The company does offer a good benefits package, a few parties and picnics throughout the year, pleasant breakroom facilities with free coffee, and occasional catered lunches.
Cons
If you are considering a managerial position or a position where you would work directly with the "C" levels, be prepared for a frustrating and chronically challenging work culture. There are some big egos and rampant narcissism to contend with the higher you go where the behavior runs the gamut from passive/aggressive to just plain aggressive. If you have rock solid self-esteem and the ability to leave work at work, if you have a steady and sane temperament in the midst of craziness, if you can identify and resist being manipulated and gaslighted, and if you are good at setting and maintaining pristine and non-negotiable personal boundaries, you will be fine. Otherwise, consider another employer.
