Competitive CPG Broker Worth Looking At- with Some Areas of Opportunity
Pros
1. Challenging - Collaboration - Team Building - Autonomy - Competitive Entry Pay - Great Clients - Opportunities to Cross Train 2. New parent company WIS (mainly the new CEO- Jim Rose) is really good. I always felt like he had his finger on the pulse of each piece of the company, and knew the strengths, opportunities, and areas needing addressed. He acknowledged known issues, presented a clear and concise plan of action, and celebrated successes at every level of the company- He showed a true investment in making Crossmark a better company utilizing the breadth and strength of WIS to the betterment of Crossmark- be a shame to loose him. 3. There are some phenomenally knowledgeable and talented people there who are true team players one can leverage for learnings/coaching/share successes/willing to assist, but are somewhat rare. If you identify one, hook your wagon to them and you will have success and likely enjoy all that Crossmark offers.
Cons
1. As a BAM the buck stops with you- you will answer for any and all short comings and challenges regardless of the situation- see item #3. You carry the weight for the organization, BAMs are the backbone that carry the head (management)- CBMs are gold and can be your best support. 2. Pay increases were not aligned with industry, and no employee wants to be told they are lucky the company even offered a merit increase (see item 1.). 3. How much support, success, collaboration, desire to win ALL depends on the leadership vertical you fall under- directors are hit or miss- some are merely paper champions and riding into retirement and lean on the BAMs for elements they are responsible for. 4. Wins are celebrated but are short lived and the focus tends to be on the shortcomings/challenges (even if it is the client who doesn't uphold their commitments).