Lonza looked best when I saw it in the rearview mirror. - Senior Manager Lonza Employee Review

1.0
Sep 28, 2013
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Has a large product portfolio; unfortunately almost all of it is built on old worked-over chemistry. They have collected together a lot of companies through acquisitions, most recently Arch Chemicals, and had (up until about mid 2012) some good prospects for building a successful, competitive business.

Cons

After Lonza acquired Arch, they were stuck with such a high debt load that they had to make massive cuts in staff, close down offices, cut product R&D, and in general put themselves on a path to go out of business. Lonza did not learn from the business and technical expertise that came from its acquisitions. They have at all costs protected their Lonza legacy upper and mid-management but sacrificed good leaders that came from the acquired companies. This is playing out very poorly, and has resulted in poor morale. Hard work does not pay off at this company. Instead, the only thing that seems to matter is where you are located. If you happen to be at one of the Arch legacy sites, protect your future by seeking employment somewhere else before your position gets cut.

Explore other reviews about Lonza

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Diverse opportunities across departments as one wanted

Cons

Provide decent pay and benefits

4.0
May 14, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Lots to learn about producing API's via fermentation in bioreactors. Lots of room for career growth towards other departments and positions, from the business to the research. Good pay and lots of benefits are offered, such as dental, vision, and medical insurance; they also have a weight-loss program that I'm taking advantage of. Quality is prioritized, so there is no pressure to learn quickly, work faster, or meet quotas to do a good job. Teams are reliable, especially when learning the ropes; they'd be a part of the job I'd miss most if I leave.

Cons

Take careful consideration and be transparent with the supervisors if you're still exploring, as it's not an entry-level job that can hire and train new people at a fast pace all the time (I'm comparing this to retail and fast-food places, though). I live an hour away and work night shift, 7 pm to 7 am, thus the total amount of hours away from home is 14 hours. Please consider your mental endurance as well as your physical endurance for the night shift, as this job requires you to be on your feet, think critically, and can challenge one's work-home life balance.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All