Exelixis Reviews

2.6

36% would recommend to a friend

(250 total reviews)
avatar

Michael M. Morrissey

39% approve of CEO

34% positive business outlook

Exelixis has an employee rating of 2.6 out of 5 stars, based on 250 company reviews on Glassdoor which indicates that most employees have an average working experience there. The Exelixis employee rating is 26% below average for employers within the Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry (3.5 stars).

Reviews by job title

250 reviews
5.0
16 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Competitive Bay Area pay, great campus, excellent employee benefits, and accessible HQ in Alameda overlooking the water (close to OAK airport). In addition to a Winter Shutdown, they've added a Summer Shutdown, so it's a great time for employees to recharge. There are opportunities for growth and development if you are proactive and seek them out. In my time here, there have been changes and reorgs, but for good reasons and in line with the business's needs. I enjoy working here and have found a great community of colleagues. The company is also very heavily invested in community outreach and giving.

Cons

Exelixis is a 5-day onsite company, and for those wondering if it is enforced, yes, it is. That said, it's a modern, beautiful campus with a nice fitness center and a subsidized cafeteria. They offer commuter benefits and even carpooling programs among colleagues, in addition to a shuttle from the Peninsula.

5.0
8 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Comp and benefits: Pay, bonus, equity (ESPP, RSU, PSU, LTIP) very generous. Work life balance: Beautiful new building on the bay, nice views and climate. Onsite gym and cafeteria. 5 days a week onsite with flexibility, both a summer shutdown and a winter shutdown. Commuter benefits such as vanpool and BART. Culture and values: colleagues feel like family. The value of the company is to help patients recover stronger and live longer, and that's huge if being part of a bigger cause is important to you. Diversity and inclusion - Differences are celebrated. Career opportunities - If you wait around for your manager to promote you then it will take a while to happen anywhere. There's plenty of career opportunities in Exelixis, and every time I've shown interest, I've been given new opportunities. Senior management: It's easy to know the leaders at Exelixis, they're very approachable. People here are smart and passionate people that are shaping the future of this company.

Cons

Not everyone is suited to work here, because the company hires and retains high achievers. If you're a high achiever then this is a pro instead of a con, as you will get to work with similar, driven people.

5.0
29 May 2026

My Job Fulfills Me

Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I I have learned a lot and grown during my time at Exelixis. I work hard every day with my team, and I am motivated to do so because of our mission. We give our patients more time with those they love. What’s better than that? I work alongside some great folks, and I am excited to see what the future holds for us. Our benefits and the benefits team are excellent. Good pay, a beautiful campus, and meaningful work. Are there issues? Sure, every organization has them, but I am happy here.

Cons

Internal support structures like a central communication hub are missing but are currently being developed.

Viewing 1 - 3 of 250 Reviews

Glassdoor has 271 Exelixis reviews submitted anonymously by Exelixis employees. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if Exelixis is right for you.