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Bridgewater Associates

Engaged Employer

Rise of the Friendly Human Machines - Management Support Associate Bridgewater Associates Employee Review

3.0
Jul 21, 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Let me be very clear: Bridgewater really is a special place. The people they hire (moreso in management & core business) are some of the brightest, most experienced experts in the world. Their focus on objective observation and cognition in problem solving is especially effective on a personal level - if you can get through the emotional meat grinder of applying and mastering those skills. The desire for transparency is awesome, and the perks and pay were pretty fantastic (BW parties and trips are out of this world). Their benefits package is AWESOME, and despite everything else associated with the company these really are some fantastic, kind people.

Cons

Those same super expert-level people will either last under a year or evolve into logical automatons, complete with all the good and bad you can imagine. And the rest of the turnover rate is insane, especially among the younger people they churn in and out. (Started in a training class of about 20; under 10 left after 6 mo, only 5 after a full year) Emotions are considered to be a factor, but an extraneous one you really should get rid of if you want excel in decision making. And unfortunately the paramount goal of "optimum efficiency through logical thinking and solid oversight" has evolved into a frustrating bureaucracy that makes it very hard to get things done outside of the core investment business. Also, be prepared for your regular 50+ hour min work week, or face the inquisitive/jealous/demeaning gazes of your peers (and probably some probing and discussion as to why you feel it's ok to "produce less" or something). Beware the false objectivity of personality data ranking.

Explore other reviews about Bridgewater Associates

5.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Incredibly unique and insightful team culture

Cons

Bottlenecked by middle management decisions occasionally

4.0
May 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Interesting place to work if interested in finance

Cons

Wide variety of cultures across teams

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