Bad overall - Anonymous employee Novartis Employee Review

I had a disappointing experience with this company, primarily due to poor upper management. The leaders at the top seemed to lack essential technical knowledge and management skills, which was evident in their day-to-day operations. There was a noticeable absence of tactical or strategic contributions from their end, indicating a gap in effective leadership. It appeared that their main concern was maintaining a positive perception among their peers and higher-ups, rather than focusing on actual business growth or employee welfare. Another significant issue was the ever-increasing list of responsibilities being placed on the employees, exacerbated by the company's decision to enforce a hiring freeze. This decision not only added undue stress on the current workforce but also hampered productivity and morale. Furthermore, the organization is burdened with an excessive number of middle managers. These managers are supposed to 'oversee' various workstreams, but their involvement often feels more like interference than assistance, complicating tasks that could be completed more efficiently. This over-management leads to a convoluted and inefficient workflow, further contributing to the overall dissatisfaction with the company's management structure. Promotions within the organization appear to be less about merit and more about popularity or networking. It seems as though those who are well-connected or favored within the company are more likely to advance, regardless of their actual performance or qualifications. This approach to promotions undermines the value of hard work and talent, potentially leading to a demotivated workforce and a culture that does not prioritize true skill and dedication.