Not a dumpster fire, a landfill fire - Scientist Exelixis Employee Review

1.0
Jul 16, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good pay and benefits Rank and file people are talented and hard workers

Cons

Upper management is a train wreck and doesn't know how to run a company this size. Their decisions are often made based on feelings rather that facts. Sweeping changes to projects and the company are made rapidly and with no plan for how they will be implemented. They will commit to a goal and then deny you the resources you need to achieve that goal. So much time, effort, and money goes to waste because these people can't get their act together and won't step up to take responsibility for anything. Upper management despises the people under them. Micromanagement is rampant. They will say anything and promise you the world to get you to join but it's all lies. There was a large layoff in January followed by mandatory RTO to force out even more people with more layoffs likely to come.

Explore other reviews about Exelixis

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Comp and benefits: Pay, bonus, equity (ESPP, RSU, PSU, LTIP) very generous. Work life balance: Beautiful new building on the bay, nice views and climate. Onsite gym and cafeteria. 5 days a week onsite with flexibility, both a summer shutdown and a winter shutdown. Commuter benefits such as vanpool and BART. Culture and values: colleagues feel like family. The value of the company is to help patients recover stronger and live longer, and that's huge if being part of a bigger cause is important to you. Diversity and inclusion - Differences are celebrated. Career opportunities - If you wait around for your manager to promote you then it will take a while to happen anywhere. There's plenty of career opportunities in Exelixis, and every time I've shown interest, I've been given new opportunities. Senior management: It's easy to know the leaders at Exelixis, they're very approachable. People here are smart and passionate people that are shaping the future of this company.

Cons

Not everyone is suited to work here, because the company hires and retains high achievers. If you're a high achiever then this is a pro instead of a con, as you will get to work with similar, driven people.

4.0
May 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I read all the reviews before, during, and after the interview process, and after accepting my offer, and found that much of what people are complaining about isn't unique to Exelixis. On-site expectations aren't unique, constant change isn't unique, and leaders who aren't perfect aren't unique. What is unique is the genuinely kind and committed staff, significant investment in excellent benefits and perks, dogs allowed in non-lab environments, and people who spend their careers here. My advice for job seekers: don't be scared. Reach out to your network and ask them directly about their experiences. Bitter Glassdoor reviews didn't dissuade me, and I'm glad I didn't listen.

Cons

Some teams are extremely top-heavy with titles that don't exist in the industry, and some leaders are more interested in flexing their control than leading with empathy.

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