The interview process was fine, the people I met were friendly and the work seems interesting and challenging. The problems began during the offer stage. I interviewed for a full time role, but at the last minute, this was pulled and I was offered a contract instead. They have a policy of only hiring full time employees if you come from certain big companies. Ability or experience doesn't matter. I passed all interviews and was recommenced for the job but it was blocked higher up the food chain for this reason, no other. I interviewed in good faith for a full time position, investing my time and efforts preparing for interviews, only to have the rug pulled from under me last minute. This was extremely unprofessional and reflects very poorly on the company. The company should be upfront about this policy. While short-sighted and moronic, they are perfectly entitled to do this but candidates should be filtered out before interview and being told a job will be offered. I would also note that the contract offered was below market rates for the position and responsibility.

three steps, one technical, one presentation and Q&A, one screen call from recruiter about salary and availability for full/part time and how long. The presentation was on the site and in person