Pros
An established Multi-National well positioned to serve the growing imperative for businesses to deeply understand the media and purchasing behaviour of their consumers across global markets. Gaining momentum across a number of industry verticals outside of Consumer Packaged Goods where the company has had a strong focus in the past given ownership over a number of datasets relevant to that particular industry. Flexible work-life balance, it's not perfect but it's pretty good considering this company is a Multi-National corporation. Opportunity to work from home or other locations as and when required depending on your role and the relationship you are capable of building with your Manager and team. No "face-time" culture. Boundless opportunities for career growth if you 1) Demonstrate the ability to hone your skills in your role AND 2) Are capable of demonstrating that to decision makers and navigating AND importantly; 3) Have the capacity to comprehend the strategic opportunities that exist for this business beyond BAU. Demonstrating these three capabilities is critical to progression in this business. You will hear and see of people frustrated over a stagnated progression despite mastering great skill and competence in what they do. Nielsen recognises the strategic opportunity that lies ahead for the organisation in growing their professional services capabilities; advisory & analytics. Proactivity, leadership, forward-thinking, positivity in attitude, perseverance, big-picture thinking, negotiation skills, creativity, adaptive capability and an entrepreneurial mindset are just some of the qualities required in addition to competence that will ensure your success with this organisation. It is fast-changing and those who don't recognise that potential are left behind.
Cons
The increased focus on a meritocratic system is good although there have been instances where structural challenges in the company - i.e. data and system migrations have placed large amounts of pressure on talented individuals who have left the organisation as a result of not being recognised for their great efforts in the face of issues outside of their control. Some Managers display greater incompetence than their subordinates. To drive scale the organisation relies on an outsourcing model in many areas of the business. There is much work to do here in terms of improving efficiency. It is one of the most challenging aspects of working for this company and it will not be going away anytime soon.