Since the merger with Kronos, Ultimate Software has experienced a significant decline in its once stellar culture and leadership. The original leadership team is no longer present, and the current focus has shifted solely to financial performance. There are ongoing hiring freezes, and promotions are arbitrary and influenced by favoritism, limiting career advancement opportunities. The private equity firm that owns the company appears more interested in going public or selling the company rather than investing in its people. This has led to a lack of transparency from management and a pervasive sense of uncertainty. Many talented employees are leaving for competitors, and the once-great organization now feels like a sinking ship.