An epitome of academic wannabe meritocracy in the field of financial services
Gut am Arbeitgeber finde ich
Some tasks may require heavy piece of maths.
Schlecht am Arbeitgeber finde ich
Still learning when it comes to software, but with the new leadership when I arrived 3 years ago that may have meanwhile changed (I hope for them).
Verbesserungsvorschläge
Employ cooperative people instead of non-cooperative.
Arbeitsatmosphäre
I wouldn't say that it wasn't fair or friendly. Nevertheless, academic degree and position seemed more important than efficient, simple and reliable engineering. If you are an experienced software engineer, you may suffer from politics. If you are a junior, you may never see the light that came from the age of Enlightenment. In summary, I would describe it as a toxic atmosphere.
Kommunikation
Information about projects, deadlines, bonuses, etc. is provided frequently. I would say that the communication was quite transparent.
Kollegenzusammenhalt
If you ask simple questions, youll get helpful answers. If, however, you dare to raise an issue that requires brainstorming and cooperation, you will wish that you had never raised the issue.
Work-Life-Balance
You will reap all the benefits of a small Swiss company; quite flexible working times, much freedom when to go for the next vacation, etc.
Vorgesetztenverhalten
During my work lifetime, I cannot think of a worse experience than the one I had to endure in this company, more precisely team.
For example, there was an implementation task that was comparatively complex (it was by far not as complex as what you may have dealt with during your education). The project leader, like many other project leaders, was busy with many other things. However, that leader did not let the team do it for him. Instead, the project leader wanted to deliver the task by himself; he told the team to re-read (with emphasis on the first syllable) documents meanwhile...
Anything involving minuscule complexity or experience in software (which the project leader did not have), was not delegated to peers. There was zero confidence in the competence of co-workers, a lack of leadership experience and general immaturity (the leadership didn't like Power Point). When it became clear to the leadership that the team would not meet the deadline, it started to avoid responsibility at all costs.
How is it possible that a team of highly educated and skilled people cannot meet a not-very-ambitious deadline? (I could answer that, but I'm not allowed to answer that in detail here)
Interessante Aufgaben
Was cool, the skills required went beyond standard software engineering - but of course far below high-tech. It has its purpose in the financial services and that is.
Gleichberechtigung
It was a bit sexist, but many companies are still today.
Arbeitsbedingungen
Old building without air conditioning. There is no air circulation, so make sure you bring your own fan. It may feel even warmer inside than outside (in summer)! Noisy outside (construction work, tourists, dogs, etc.). However, one has to admit that its beautifully located in the heart of Zürich. Therefore, three points.
Gehalt/Sozialleistungen
As far as I can tell, its okay (however, during my application process, I got offers that were financially better off).
Image
The image what I heard isnt really that high. See ratings here...
Karriere/Weiterbildung
There were relatively many promotions taking into account its a very small company. In most cases, the promotions were "financial upgrades" rather than upgrades in rank or position. The prospects for a step up on the career ladder are below average - which is perfectly fine for a small company.