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Friends International

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Friends International Reviews

2.8

48% would recommend to a friend

(13 total reviews)

47% positive business outlook

Reviews by job title

13 reviews
1.0
12 May 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

They are very dedicated to the cause of child protection, they do it at a very local level, and they have a very strict child protection policy

Cons

The founder is micro managing every aspect of the organization, he oversees more than 30 middle managers, who are under-powered and have no room to do their job without checking everything with the founder, he doesn't trust anyone. Managers are abusive and use violent communication. No clear objectives and strategies are settled and the overall environment is stressful and confusing (everyone criticizes everyone)

1.0
22 Nov 2022

Not Great

Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Very committed to beneficiary protection Good reputation in Cambodia

Cons

Unfortunately, the negative reviews already here are true, and as of 2022 there is no noticeable effort to improve these problems, or even recognition that there is a problem. The Executive Director has fashioned a work culture where people are scared to get on his bad side, and quick to scapegoat others if they find themselves there. My time in the HQ is one of the least rewarding work experiences I've ever had. If you've ever watched that clip of Gordon Ramsay forcing that woman to call herself an idiot-sandwich and thought "I'd really thrive under that kind of leader" then maybe this is the right place for you, but otherwise, best to avoid.

5.0
16 Jan 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Friends is a child protection organisation with an excellent reputation and a strict moral conduct guiding operations and communications - all employees have a profound respect for Friends' beneficiaries. I have learned how to do fundraising and communications with strict guidelines to protect and respect our beneficiaries' dignity and privacy at all times, and these are awesome takeaways. - The job gave me space to grow professionally while benefitting from a close guidance from my managers. - The managers and HR want you to thrive and will always be available for you, should have you any concern, need for assistance or wish. - I personally love the work atmosphere : great vibes, great colleagues to work with. Great ethical and humanist values throughout the organisation.

Cons

- Yes, there's a hierarchy with a strong respect for seniority, many employees have been working at this organisation for over 10 years and it can be a bit impressive for newbies, who may struggle to find their place at times. But once you earn your colleagues'/managers' trust, you have a real voice and that's very rewarding. - yes, the Executive Director is impressive by his stature and personality - it has not always been easy to work by his side because he is a frank person who speaks his mind out - but I personally never found that he was disrespectful to anyone and I have a deep admiration for what he has achieved for the past 29 years. I have learned a lot by his side and find his, and all other managers, very approachable. There have been a lot of efforts made to action on feedback from former and current employees to improve the management's style and it's important to acknowledge them.

Viewing 1 - 3 of 13 Reviews

Glassdoor has 16 Friends International reviews submitted anonymously by Friends International employees. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if Friends International is right for you.