Use caution/ Toxic culture - Architect Otak Employee Review

1.0
31 Jan 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- The GO (Green Operations) Committee: There are non-executive level staff who are running this volunteer led group that are top notch. - The DEI Committee: Another volunteer led group with enthusiastic non-executive level staff that are doing good work. - Otak University: Opportunities to learn from other departments about their work. - Projects with Federal Agencies - these are well led and projects are a fun, rewarding challenge.

Cons

- There remains to be a lot of "talk" about the culture being what it is advertised online/paper, but it is far from the truth. Suggest talking with several non-executive level or leadership staff to ask questions about the culture to understand it better. - Conflict avoidant culture: "Go along to get along" office culture. No one wants to hear constructive criticism or any negative feedback. Passive aggressive behaviors run rampant and are at every level of the company. - --> Social Ostracism is common, resistance to solve problems in a healthy dialogue (open/honest face to face professional manner); reviews often present surprises as staff are not providing constructive criticism/feedback. - No mentorship program - Mysterious group of partners/shareholders with no clarity in how to be "in the club" - Dominate white male led company in most all departments ----> Little to no leadership representation of women, people of color, disabled, parents of young children, and younger generations. - Inconsistent experience across company (depending on office location and Director of the organization) Some are more positive and fulfilling than others. - Several Directors in the company still use old-school management methods and a commanding chauvinistic leadership style (intimidation and bullying) ----> Swearing at staff publicly, insults, humiliation, repetitive degradation, and lack of empowerment. - CEO talks openly about their politics and invites conversations to discuss. This has not helped to create a culture of positivity or harmony. It's contributed to the toxic environment in a negative way. With this, other staff have followed this same behavior resulting in a hostile work environment. Mulitple non-leadership staff contributed with their political rants creating an uncomfortable work environment and feelings of discrimination.

Explore other reviews about Otak

5.0
9 Feb 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great work life balance, lots of projects never bored, management really cares, helpful enthusiastic colleagues, lots of help to develop career path you want

Cons

Can’t think of any right now

2
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Otak Response
2y
Thank you for sharing your feedback about your experience at Otak!
3.0
23 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Hybrid Schedule and the people.

Cons

Lack of leadership clarity and roles going unfilled for long periods.

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