Poor US leadership of EMEA team & no career development structure - Anonymous employee Sparks Employee Review

2.0
12 Feb 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great bunch of people in the London office, with good community vibes. Some fairly exciting projects, and a largely flexible work/life balance.

Cons

The US leadership gives the EMEA team very little autonomy, which makes it hard to operate effectively. There’s no clear career development structure, no meaningful progression planning, and no real tools or support for self-development. It’s not a place I’d recommend for anyone with strong ambition or long-term growth in mind. Some super shady management going on, with the dismissal of some of the European based legacy Sparks team, which raises concerns about transparency and leadership approach.

Explore other reviews about Sparks

5.0
4 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Lots of layoffs after the acquisition

Cons

Good work-life balance, benefits, and a very good company culture.

3.0
8 Dec 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

A great company with a great reputation. Good client list. Those who were at Sparks before 2023 are the ones to know.

Cons

Getting bought by Freeman was the worst thing that could have happened to this agency. Strong leaders are neutered (if they even stick around). We haven't had a CEO in months. The new leaders are the dusty old ineffective ones from the dissolved Freeman agency. They bring in their old methods and then wonder why things stop working correctly. It's a shame. Now it's like working at an old hotel and everyone wonders why no one visits anymore.

3
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