Oh boy, where do I even start.
Ask just about anyone in the company and they’ll tell you the same thing, this is one of the worst-run startups you can walk into.
Let’s start with the Talent and HR team. They oversell the company so hard it crosses into flat-out lying. You’ll quickly realize that what you were told in the hiring process doesn’t line up with reality. Right now, the HR team is basically a hollow shell. The turnover is unreal, and there are constant issues with the 401k, pay, benefits you name it. This is hands down the worst HR team I’ve had to interact with at any company.
And then there’s the culture. This is a German company, so the majority of your daily interactions are with Germans and folks overseas from other cultures. This isn't a bad thing, however, they love throwing around the term “German bluntness” at Vay, but really, it’s just used as an excuse to yell at you, berate you, and even call you names. Be prepared for that if you join. Not all of them are bad people, but the ones who are are typically the ones you have high contact with just to put that out there.
Let’s not forget about the CEO, Thomas von der Ohe. He openly despises American norms. He’s said Americans are paid too much and has fought against basic benefits like extended parental leave. The leadership is weak, the culture is toxic, and the direction is a mess.
Most people here are just passing through. Many were laid off from other companies and landed here out of desperation. And now, they’re trying just as hard to get out.
If you’re unemployed and absolutely need something to hold you over, take this job knowing it will be mentally rough. You’ll have tough days, very tough days.
But if you’re currently employed and just thinking about making a switch, let this be your warning. Even if you’re coming from a bad environment, Vay will top it. Easily.
You’ve been warned.
