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Dimensional Fund Advisors

Engaged employer

It was like working in a cult! - Investment Dimensional Fund Advisors Employee Review

1.0
Jan 5, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Working hours are very good - Atmosphere is relaxed

Cons

- Ineffective management structure - No professional or personal growth - Poor quality work - Very little responsibility given - No opportunities for initiative or distinction - Lack of options outside DFA - Compensation is good for job, but low compared to industry - Office was like a cult - you are not allowed to have your own opinion, you must learn the market efficiency beliefs (which is fine), but you have to speak in a certain way and are only allowed to answer client questions with approved answers which you memorize .... no need to think for yourself!

Explore other reviews about Dimensional Fund Advisors

5.0
May 19, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Excellent work culture with competitive salary and wonderful colleagues. Many long-tenured employees, with lots of room for growth. No big egos and there's a genuine belief in doing the right thing.

Cons

Not fully remote, but there is a hybrid set up.

5.0
May 18, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Co-CEO Gerard O’Reilly always says, “Do the right thing, the right way, right away.” This is more than a mantra at DFA. These are good people, some of the smartest in the industry, and their bar is excellence. People sometimes joke about “drinking the DFA koolaid”. Here’s the koolaid: DFA doesn’t slap lipstick on a pig just to push product. DFA actually believes (and has been around long enough to prove) that you can lead with education, and IF your investment offering is genuinely good, the assets will naturally follow. Theirs is. What ex employee critics have said: “DFA moves too slow.” Fails to mention the likes of how DFA just led the industry with an absolute machete hacking thru the regulatory and operational jungle to pave a path for active share class for the good of investors. First filing? DFA. First to launch? DFA. Fast where it counts. “DFA doesn’t fund platforms for sales!” Indeed, would make life easier in some Sales channels, but would also impose more cost burden on end investors, so... The reality: Those who dance are considered insane by those who hear not the music. The firm, the philosophy, the people- all impressive. It has been one of the privileges of my career to work at Dimensional.

Cons

Hmm well the main grievance amongst the employee office committee was the insufficiency of the breakroom selection comprised of only of creamer, whole milk, 2%, and almond milk. I only hope the egregious omission has been remedied in the months since my departure and coconut milk added to said selection.

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