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Gates Foundation

Is this your company?

Where smart people go to feel stupid... - Senior Program Officer Gates Foundation Employee Review

3.0
22 Nov 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Amazing bright colleagues, inspiring mission, great benefits, most people in the country will return your calls. Great learning opportunities.

Cons

They hire some of the best and the brightest, but then give them little power to act on it. Unrealistic faith that great strategic planning and technology alone can change the world Too much value placed on to "manage up" -- especially to Bill (that guy in the corner office)

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Gates Foundation Response
9y
Thanks o much for your review. It was nice to hear your thoughts on the positive aspects and it's always helpful to hear perspectives of employees based upon their experience. The foundation continues to work hard to be a good partner with grantees and others within the ecosystem.

Explore other reviews about Gates Foundation

5.0
24 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Everyone is aligned to the mission. Fantastic benefits.

Cons

These could be pros for some but travel and ambiguity are things to deal with

3.0
8 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Mission-based work Diverse, passionate employee base Healthcare benefit Parental leave and support Unlimited PTO

Cons

Poor work-life balance Perfectionist culture Unreasonable expectations with working hours High levels of burnout Retaliation for setting boundaries with working hours Culture resistant to prioritization of work

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