Vantaggi
Dedicated and knowledgeable colleagues. Cutting edge technology used in some groups. Excellent compensation and benefits overall. Excellent software products for the niche secondary mortgage industry. Fannie still makes a difference in the nation's secondary mortgage industry, despite the Conservator-ship.
Svantaggi
Highly politicized and stressful work culture, brutally long hours expected from individual contributors. Many technologists burnt out, clinically depressed and heavily medicated - unstable behavior patterns in many teams. Top down management style about three decades too late - most top management are politically connected Washington fat cats with cynical and manipulative attitudes, but huge paychecks. Fosters a "kiss up and kick down" environment, where middle management is constantly trying to do the (often mindless) bidding of their executives, most middle management completely ignorant & redundant. Constant & unnecessary meetings, leading to countless consultant hours wasted on providing status reports. HR could care less about the well being of employees unless you are senior management, it's all about toeing the line from the top - it's a miracle that they aren't swimming in Lawsuits. Note to prospective employees - work here only if desperate to pay the bills, this is a place of last resort. Note to prospective employers - don't hire a Fannie old timer, you will most likely get a do nothing political animal.