Best Global Firm - Vice President Edelman Employee Review

5.0
11 Sept 2018
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Edelman is objectively the best global communications firm thanks to its privately-held structure, positive culture and willingness to celebrate high-achievers. - The D.C. and NYC offices both possess great client bases, especially in the financial sector. - When it comes to Financial Communications, it helps that Richard Edelman supports the practice - Legit opportunities for advancement - Thoughtful managers when they have time to get to know you one-on-one - Fair compensation and willingness to give meaningful raises when promoted - Depending on the practice you're in, Edelman will invest in professional development (e.g. conferences and trips)

Cons

- Edelman is probably too big right now at nearly 6,000 people - Too much focus on revenue over margin - Lack of focus on the basics (e.g. media relations, etc.) - Often times, weak senior talent at the VP-Practice Chair level doesn't get discovered as incompetent until after departures - FinComms leadership can sometimes be aloof and FinServ leadership seems to almost always lack the right sector expertise - Financial practice pays 15%-25% less than boutique peers

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Edelman Response
7y
Thanks for your thoughtful feedback! It's clear you experienced some of the great qualities of Edelman that I also value - positive culture, meaningful rewards, impressive client rosters, thoughtful management and more. While business growth will continue to be a driver for us, I appreciate your take on how our size can create some challenges. We're always trying the strike the right balance of growth and remaining true to our roots. If you have any other feedback to share, I hope you'll reach out at maria.okeeffe@edelman.com. Maria O'Keeffe, Executive Director, US HR

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5.0
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CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

good people and cool clients

Cons

not a lot of work life balance

4.0
10 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Edelman gives you real exposure to senior leaders, complex work, and smart people. You can learn a lot quickly, build strong relationships, and get close to how decisions are made. There are also good opportunities to take on meaningful projects if you are proactive and willing to speak up.

Cons

The pace can be a lot, and the work can feel reactive at times. Priorities shift quickly and roles often expand beyond the original scope without always having clear boundaries, title growth, or compensation changes. Career growth is possible, but you often have to advocate for it yourself. Overall, Edelman can be a great place to grow if you are adaptable, organized, and comfortable with ambiguity. It works best when you have strong leaders, clear expectations, and support around workload and growth. That last part is impossible to control, so may the odds be in your favor.

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