Lendistry Group Learning & Development Manager interview questions

I applied for the role as I have ample experience and the pay range posted was wide and included what I was looking for financially, even though lower than similar positions. I spoke to the recruiter who was very nice. However, she explained that while the pay range was wide, the HM was only willing to pay the base level and no more. I explained that would be a paycut for me and that my experience and qualifications should make me eligible for my ask in this market. Recruiter told me I was her top candidate so far but would have to speak to the HM for approval to pay more than the base salary (again they advertised a higher amount). Recruiter came back and told me that HM would not pay more than base level. I saw the job is still open and they have actually *lowered* the base salary even more. Huge red flag for this manager and company.