Pros
Great benefit programs; especially retirement, medical and retiree health care. Fast paced growth business Great place to work if you are young, want to learn and put up with mgmt continual flip flopping strategic vision / business growth. Let very unsuccessful and ineffective business operate too long, never face reality; Covariance E&F unit and Banking division are examples of two business units that are draining resources, TIAA-CREF participants paying toll.
Cons
Management does not promote from within; most senior mgmt hires come from outside firm. Certain areas; poor human resources, results in not effective recruitment to fill new positions, takes too long to post position, get hired. The Banking and Trust division was being directed by Legal leaders and not business / product leaders. Wealth Mgmt business is a revolving door, they cannot retain effective advisor work force. Mgmt very top-heavy with ineffective long term individuals so how have little practical knowledge how to run their business unit