Unfortunately, the work culture is extremely top down, overly controlling, and micromanagerial. This was exacerbated by significant cross-cultural differences. It was a continual challenge to recieve directive from internationally-based managers with little to no experience in NYC -- on a product built around localized expert knowledge.
At first, the work felt interesting and the possibilities seemed great. Yet it quickly became clear how easy tasks were to master, and how painfully repetitive and monotonous they were. To the external world, the company billed this very hands-on research and writing of analysts as the output of "AI" and "machine learning." This was a major demotivator, diminishing analysts' pride in their work and validating a feeling of being robots in a production line.
Moreover, suggestions about alternative or better ways of doing things were frequently ignored or shot down, with little thanks or encouragement for thinking outside the box. This was also a major inhibitor of creativity and led to a team that was very discouraged.
Work responsibilities also became increasingly siloed and pidgeonholed as the company hired people to do increasingly specialized tasks. Analysts were repeatedly told that there was no room for upward mobility or changes to work responsibilities, and that there was no vision for how roles would evolve if the company achieved its growth objectives. Even small things like minor title adjustments or professional development opportunities would have made all the difference, but were a constant battle. Stubbornness and pushback from managers over small things, and the lack of any career potential ultimately tipped many employees over the edge.
The company is building an interesting product but forgetting about its employees along the way. It's a shame, because it's led to the loss of many wonderful, talented, and passionate people -- people who really cared about what the company is trying to accomplish. This may be a fine stint for someone right out of school, but not for anyone with work experience or expecting growth potential within the company.
