Pros
WRF has a flexible working schedule, including remote-work up to 3 days per pay period. It has fairly good work-life balance for staff, and as a Research Manager, I get to work on topics that interest me, and there are opportunities to shift into new areas that you want to learn more about. I've gotten to work with volunteers and experts from every part of the water sector, including utilities, consultants, academics, and regulators. Research planning and knowledge management are intellectually stimulating, and it is satisfying to be a part of moving the sector forward through research. For the most part, this has been an amazing job.
Cons
In 2018, WRF merged with WE&RF, and has struggled to manage key merger-related actions, particularly restructuring staff and re-designing core processes in the Research Services team. There is lack of willingness to make needed changes in a timely manner because they’ll be unpleasant to some staff. As a result, many staff have either left, become resentful, or they have withdrawn and are no longer invested in the team’s success. Toxic employees and disrespectful behavior are not dealt with decisively. The culture has become increasingly toxic and unpleasant and there are days I dread coming to work. Changes to the current leadership approach, or the leaders themselves, are needed.