Great projects, people but too many politics to make a difference - Project Manager Genentech Employee Review

3.0
11 Dec 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Excellent benefits and recognition for working for a top employer; exposure to very leading-edge projects

Cons

Very restricted in what you can actually do; every step you take is extremely political and territories defended; high 'churn' rate in management. Process is to introduce new leader every two years, sink or swim, then add another new manager 1.5 years in. If the old boss can't take it, they end up reporting to the new boss. I know of four instances of this in my department, and four more in a parallel department.

Explore other reviews about Genentech

5.0
6 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great salary and team! The interview process was smooth and effective.

Cons

To be determined, but so far many alignment meetings. Some folks have frustuations around the re-org and strategy changes.

3.0
7 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Genentech's origin story and mission are genuinely inspiring — few companies can point to such a meaningful historical arc in medicine. Patient engagement is taken seriously and feels authentic, not performative. The campus is beautiful and the culture has real warmth.

Cons

DDA is operating with significant gaps. First, the foundational data infrastructure is not mature enough to support the ambitions being set for the team. Second, the measurement culture has gotten ahead of the methodology, and no one in a position of authority seems to be asking hard questions about whether the numbers actually mean what they're being presented as meaning. Third, some management feel disconnected from the work itself, lacking the knowledge, hands-on experience, or relevant credentials. Individually any one of these would be manageable. Together these create an environment where it's hard to do rigorous work, rather work is performative, and be recognized for it.

3
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