Company objectives/ideals do not match practices/reality - R&D Associate AstraZeneca Employee Review

2.0
Jun 13, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

This is a short list: free fruit Tuesdays and breakfast on Thursdays. Free beverages. Friendly and talented coworkers.

Cons

Highly inept and out-of-touch middle management. Most are clueless and rely on intellectually superior and/or more experienced subordinates. Theoretically there are standards for career development and advancement, but those are hardly applied in practice. Promotions are 20% hard work, 80% who u know and kiss up to. Corporate structure is an upside-down triangle: lots of scientists/managers are perm hired, but few RA positions. Many of those RA positions are temp hired, so a lot of training is invested only to see them either quit or let go due budgetary concerns. Initiatives, particular for improving employee morale or communications are unfortunately half-baked. Initially hyped with the usual buzzwords, these initiatives typically fall to the wayside and become forgotten.

Explore other reviews about AstraZeneca

5.0
May 28, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great place to work and good benefits

Cons

There really aren’t any cons

5.0
Apr 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I imagine this is very dependent on line management but I find my team and supervisors to be true champions of a high performing and highly compassionate work culture. I find my work challenging and rewarding, and have had opportunities to learn and grow and be rewarded and recognized for my output. No job is perfect but I’m truly happy to work here and at a time when AZ is truly rising like a rocket.

Cons

Like any massive global corporate entity, things can sometimes move slowly and it can be challenging to navigate a high number of constantly evolving priorities and initiatives. That being said, AZ is very clear about its north stars and values which makes it possible to prioritize work that has the most impact and alignment with the company’s ambition and business prerogatives. 60% office attendance policy is also a bit funny when oftentimes I am on Teams calls with colleagues sitting in other areas of the world.

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