Good Company, Poor Management - Recensione dipendente - Business Development Manager presso Astek

My tenure in this role, blending Business Development and leadership in Sales and Customer Success teams, has provided a revealing glimpse into the inner workings of the ME branch. The absence of a dedicated marketing department or even a coherent sales strategy was initially surprising. This lacuna has created an environment where responsibilities are muddled, and the majority of prospects are sourced through inbound channels. The plight is exacerbated for Business Development professionals without LinkedIn premium, navigating their responsibilities with limited resources. Office dynamics are marked by selective rule application, favoring upper management based on personal relationships. This favoritism has permeated the workplace, resulting in a breakdown of communication, a sense of isolation among team members, and a pervasive demotivation. Verbal agreements, a critical aspect of professional relationships, are not consistently honored, adding an unwelcome layer of uncertainty. The role of a Business Development professional extends beyond the conventional, encompassing client management, consultant coordination, and the multifaceted responsibilities of a BD, Sales rep, and Account manager. Surprisingly, the absence of provided business cases for engaging potential clients leaves BDs navigating uncharted territory. The distribution of yearly bonuses lacks predictability and universality, further contributing to an environment of uncertainty. Decisions of a personal nature are frequently disseminated inappropriately during group meetings, creating an atmosphere of discomfort. Caution is advised against allowing prospects to interface with upper management due to the potential for last-minute cancellations, highlighting a lack of organizational professionalism. Onboarding for Business Development roles is virtually nonexistent, with a disproportionate focus on task-oriented responsibilities over team education. The absence of HR support is a glaring gap, leaving employees without a neutral party to address concerns or conflicts. This void extends to legal matters, where Business Development professionals find themselves drafting agreements with potential clients. Compounding this challenge, the drafts provided by the French branch often inadequately align with the local legal system, requiring meticulous attention to detail. Non-French speakers frequently encounter exclusion from critical conversations, creating an additional layer of complexity in day-to-day interactions. Prospective employees should brace themselves for the recurrence of this isolating situation. In conclusion, the lack of support in legal matters compounds an already challenging work environment. Prospective employees should critically evaluate these facets before committing to joining the team.