Finance - ok place to work but very top heavy and serious lack of progression - Vice President Finance Barclays Employee Review

3.0
11 Oct 2017
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

CV good place to work temporarily to understand what you don't want and how a large organization works despite having robust reporting. A lot of learning opportunities however the politics are a hinderance with a very strong blame culture. Pay reasonably good however being squeezed for new recruits due to stagnant external market.

Cons

High attrition in finance roles with Head Office driving a lot of the chaos due to a lack of understanding of the business issues. Finance is very top heavy (MDs/ Directors) and now you have highly competent AVPs and VPs leaving out of frustration as the senior managers hold on to their roles in desperation. Lack of progression due to a number of average talented people who have been at the bank for a while blocking the way. Anyone who has been there more than 3/4 years seems to miss the good old days and more of a hinderance to progress as it will mean more work for them. HR is very switched off.. and do not help or provide any guidance. Culture and Values are non existant as the CEO's own integrity has been questioned re:whistle blowing. Bonuses are used to align total comp and not performance.

Explore other reviews about Barclays

5.0
25 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good benefits, reasonable salary, 401K match

Cons

Hybrid work, functions being moved overseas

4.0
22 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Work Life balance, 5 weeks vacation, unlimited sick days, friendly atmosphere, Great campus and facilities,

Cons

Pay and Bonus can be higher and on par with competitors. High loyalty tax. Low merit increases and bonus. Competitive but Loyal Long-term employees get demotivated and tend to quite quit.

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