Ambac Reviews

Pros

At Ambac you worked with top quality people in a friendly environoment.

Cons

Unfortunately, the entire industry was destroyed during the latest financial crisis.

Advice to Senior Management

Expect the unexpected.

Pros

Good environment and friendly colleagues.

Cons

Winding down, diminishing career growth potential

Advice to Senior Management

None

Pros

The main floor is very elegant and modern, definitely a visually pleasing working environment. People are polite and friendly, and even in this era of uncertainty there seems to be a reinforcing resilient resolve amongst the employees. The working environment is very quiet, definitely good for someone who prefers a silent day at work.

Cons

There seems to be a sense of alienation amongst employees, it is not easy to make conversation and develop relationships beyond a superficial level. This may be an effect of the fragmented cubicle seating arrangement that does not allow for much interaction. The bureaucracy can be hassling at times because there are so many levels and roadblocks and checkpoints for communicating information and performing tasks, can lead to miscommunication which can hinder the day to day activities.

Advice to Senior Management

It is important to interact with the members of your department not only to develop a relationship but also to field concerns. I encountered an environment where people who worked there were hesitant to speak up for themselves because there seems to be a non-receptive air to criticism in the company.

Pros

Good benefits package. We're currently in a period of transition which I am hoping will be good in the long run. Mike Callen has been a very positive force and is steering us in the right direction.

Cons

The former CEO created an environment where people were micromanaged and not recognized for their accomplishments. It was very conservative and negative. A new CEO took over earlier this year and slowly things are changing for the better despite tough market conditions. New policies, including business casual attire and flexible work arrangements have been implemented which have created a more positive environment and have helped with the work/life balance issue. Technology was severely lacking, however steps are in place to upgrade and integrate our systems. Many people have been with the organization for a very long time and therefore are very set in their ways and are not open to change. Many of the senior managers do not communicate well to their direct reports.

Advice to Senior Management

Put faith in the fact that you've hired good people who are experts in their respective fields and let them do their jobs without micromanaging. Keep the lines of communications open so employees feel like they're well informed.