Smart people and hybrid work, but chaos reigns above
Pros
Some good hybrid working practices but be wary of the preferential treatment given to those in office. Pockets of smart people, bogged down by spreadsheets
Cons
The situation is deeply disordered. This is the largest and, regrettably, one of the most inefficient Senior Leadership Teams I have encountered. The leadership at the highest level demonstrates a concerning lack of competence, at times approaching decisions and practices that could reasonably be considered high risk. It is difficult to understand how there have not been a greater number of tribunal cases or formal claims; that outcome appears attributable more to circumstance than to effective governance or management. Success depends less on performance and more on being in favour with a small number of influential individuals. Career progression often comes through reinforcing senior leadership rather than offering challenge or independent thinking. There have been more than five restructures in approximately fifteen months, creating ongoing instability and leaving remaining teams overstretched and overwhelmed. Despite messaging around “speaking up” and “being yourself,” there is a clear disconnect between stated values and reality. Many of those who have left involuntarily were also those willing to challenge decisions or raise concerns. Pay rises have been repeatedly delayed, in some cases for years. At senior levels, performance reviews are structured in ways that limit bonus outcomes. Work–life balance is acceptable on paper, but many teams regularly take work home and spend personal time recovering from workplace tensions and ongoing internal drama. Too much focus placed on pleasing the CEO rather than challenging decisions - the company’s share price reflects the effectiveness of that approach
