Expect to wear 'many hats' - Lead Consultant Catalysis (UK) Employee Review

You will quickly develop a disciplined work ethic and a highly efficient email communication style under the constant pressure and scrutiny of management.

Reflecting on my experience, I regret having been subjected to certain workplace behaviours and practices that, at the time, I was led to believe were standard or acceptable within a professional environment. The company takes advantage of recent graduates eager to prove themselves, normalising high-pressure and inappropriate behaviours early in their careers. I experienced unsolicited comments from management regarding my appearance, clothing, and hair. In one instance, I was questioned by the CEO about my personal political views (why I wouldn’t vote for the Tories and insisting to me that there is no racism in the UK) – an exchange that was deeply uncomfortable in a professional setting. The culture normalised excessive working hours and a general “panic first” attitude, despite the nature of our B2B marketing work not warranting such intensity. My mental health declined significantly during my time here, and when I finally opened up to a colleague I thought a friend, my concerns were disclosed to management in an unprofessional context (drunk in a pub). Managers were often promoted without leadership training, leading to a cycle of unsupportive and apathetic treatment towards junior staff. Less than a year into the role, I was told by my manager to stop asking questions and leave him alone (we were “monkeys” on his back).

Good at hiring intelligent people to run the business for them, so you’ll work with some talented people and make some great friends while you’re there.

It’s a shame, Catalysis could be a great place to work but the top level leaders really let it down. CEO - aimless, out of touch and practically useless. Unable to contribute anything other than air miles and swanky dinners. On the odd occasion when he gets involved in the day-to-day you’ll wish he had stuck to shopping for pens and scrolling through Facebook. Once you get to a level of seniority it’s impossible to work here. Your job becomes about trying to solve whatever thing the CEO is irate about that day without support, direction or consistent goals. The mood swings are tiresome and the truth is hard to find and seems to change more often than you can keep up with. To put it into perspective, there have been multiple mass resignations from senior management in recent years, which speaks volumes. Do not work here if you are a creative. It’s wild how undervalued and disrespected the studio are on a daily basis, in the way they are treated and spoken to, both to their faces and much worse behind their backs.