Pros
The Seattle office, where the majority of IMS Health's software development occurs, has some of the best, smartest, and most enjoyable people to work with in the industry. Work-life balance in the Seattle office is great. Also, there's a pension.
Cons
The CEO has a completely hands-off leadership style, to the point where people seriously question whether or not he actually exists. This lack of leadership trickles down to the VP and Director levels, resulting in a complete vacuum in terms of direction. The executive team has no idea how to run a software company, and as a result there has been significant turnover. They have completely squandered the most talented team I've ever worked with. As a reward for his lack of competent leadership, the CEO receives a $20M annual bonus, while the soldiers on the ground receive a pittance. Annual merit increases--when they happen--do not even cover inflation, let alone cost of living increases. There is no employee stock purchase program or stock grant/option program. It feels like the company went public solely for the purpose of lining the pockets of Ari and his friends. As a result, employees feel zero ownership and have little incentive to make the company great. It is nearly impossible to be fired for poor work. Several dishonest people don't even bother to show up to the office, and do the barest minimum of work, but still manage to stay employed. For those of us who work hard and come into the office every day, this is very discouraging. Investor calls focus heavily on EBITDA rather than useful metrics, which is a huge red flag.
