Good for your product, probably not as good for you
Pros
I was not hired by Upland, but was part of an acquisition (as is true of many Upland employees.) When it acquires your company Upland consolidates as many shared services as possible, then to some extent leaves you alone. The corporate culture of your business unit remains much the same as it was at the time of the acquisition. The shared services can give you some tremendous new resources for product development. Unlimited PTO, though it's between you and your manager how much you can really take. It could be more or less than you'd take otherwise. It's a benefit to Upland because they don't have to carry accrued vacation time, and they don't have to pay you out of it if you leave. Remote work is encouraged, though it's not for everyone. It's clearly a cost-saving measure for the company. They'll provide equipment, but you'll have to pay for your own Internet and cell phone, even if you're a road warrior. They know how acquisitions work - it's what they do. It will go pretty smoothly and quickly, because they'll have to get ready for the next one. Everyone I've been in direct contact with is just as nice as can be.
Cons
Many of the acquired companies were small and not doing very well. As a result they bring immature processes, and that's reflected in the company as a whole. Policies are thoroughly anti-employee. On day 1 of your acquisition, you'll hear lots about how Upland will take care of your customers. You'll hear almost nothing about how they'll take care of you. You're not a priority. The employment documents you'll be forced to sign will make that very clear. Benefits are mediocre and travel policies are a disgrace. The bonus plan is weak. The business model is just weird. Growth is intended to be through acquisition and expansion in existing accounts, and not new business. That doesn't feel very sustainable. Management stated earlier this year that they're ready to start looking at organic growth, so that may change.
