Pros
I worked at PLOS from 2014 to 2019 and saw some very poor management. I did like the new CEO, Allison Mudditt, but at the time of my departure there had been two reductions in force, toxic middle managers were still being supported, and the path back to financial solvency was still unclear.
I've been watching the blogs and I really like the new CAP approach (Community Action Publishing) model. I think it's innovative and beneficient.
I've also learned that some of the more toxic people in Editorial were laid off or repositioned.
I just interviewed to rejoin-- and didn't get hired-- but nonetheless I'm very impressed with what they're doing.
Remote hiring is now OK, so the pool of applicants has likely improved vastly. This was a huge problem for the San Francisco office previously-- only people without families and a few lucky individuals could really work for a nonprofit in the Bay Area housing market.
Other pros:
Rejuvenated strategy by new CEO, Allison Muddit, and competent CSO Veronique Kiermer.
Modernized org chart thanks to CEO and Chief Publishing Officer, Niamh O'Connor. Also some less competent middle managers dismissed.
Company values established by former Chief of People.
New People and Culture team have implemented Competency Based Interviewing. It was challenging!
Cons
I suspect the company's financial security remains in doubt.
Lots of new blood --> less institutional knowledge.
