Brooks Sports has been a challenging environment to work at over the past two plus years. With yet another covert layoff in July, the once beloved brand is now on moral decline and in a serious leadership deficit. The next lay off should be at the top. The company needs to click refresh on leadership. Invest in the skill set to lead into the next decade but this time combined with the core Brooks values of what the brand once stood for. That’s not to say that leadership longevity has anything to do with having retained those core values. Poor hiring at the top line is where this went wrong. The new normal.
Why are Senior managers of the 'non adding value' employees not out of a job for lack of leadership, mentorship and career guidance?! These are the questions being bantered in the hall ways.
Proceed with caution.
If you are in the “cool” department with a high profile manager of influence, your career has a chance for growth. If by growth you mean keeping your job. The environment now is one of “take care of yourself” until you can land elsewhere. A hand full of senior leaders have seemingly been able to create and navigate the politics of the company while the blinders are on at the very top.
You should seriously weigh your options before accepting a role at Brooks. The once haven for sharp high energy talent is a black hole for honest employee recognition, competitive compensation and career growth.