Pros
Dimensional stands out as a best in class asset manager and really does put the client first. I was proud to work at Dimensional because of their values and commitment to their investment philosophy. Dimensional offers competitive benefits, generous PTO and a good work life balance. They also offer an on-site cafeteria with discounted prices for employees. The new C Suite seems to be taking notice that the employee experience needs improvement. Prior to my departure, the Co-CEOs sent out an employee survey and acted on the results within a matter of months which was impressive. The communication is also good at the executive level.
Cons
While the Firm is impressive, the employee experience in the marketing department was not. There is a serious lack of transparency between senior management and the middle managers (and the people they manage). Anyone below the senior manager level is not empowered to make any independent decisions or implement any processes or policies. All decisions have to be vetted through the department head who is a road block because 1) she’s never available due to her schedule and 2) she has no operational or marketing experience which results in no valuable direction and a lack of execution. Other departments are hesitant to collaborate with marketing due to this road block. Roles and responsibilities across the department are ill defined which leads to confusion and frustration among the staff. Input from anyone below the senior management level is not received well. I’ve personally cringed on numerous occasions watching as someone presented to the department head and was ripped to shreds in front of everyone. Lastly, I never received a single performance review in 3 years or any opportunities for career development. When I escalated this issue, I was told that everyone is busy and to develop myself.