Pros
Global, forward thinking bank that is competitive without being cut-throat. This comes from the swiss tradition of democracy and high standards. Significant opportunities as company is a leading player in many fields, such as global equities (research and trading) and fx. One of the few banks with balanced presence across Americas, Europe and Asia. One of the most open banks about issues highlighted by the sub-prime and liquidity crises and in my opinion, therefore, one likely to recover faster and remain stronger for longer. Well placed to service increasingly global economy. Have a rounded feedback process and encourage diversity and different approaches.
Cons
Ambition strained ability to manage success at the peak and poor decisions by prior management have undermined confidence. Not as well known in the Americas. Company has been brought together through a series of mergers that were all successful in the short run but many of which are not yet fully integrated. Sometimes, implementation has not been directed at the long run and the planning process is not fully thought out or flexible enough. I have yet to see this significantly improve at my level. There is uncertainty around at the moment given the situation in the industry and level of changes required. Given the adjustment required there is likely to be short run pain but the changes being implement make sense for the long run.