BMW – “BMW Group Russia – thus hardened steel.”

Pros

BMW - is the worldwide corporation where you are the part of this massive and powerful work-machine. I was absolutely sure in my future. And I get perfect work experience in BMW working with high professional people.
By being a part of this well-known brand gives you confidence in your good opportunities in your next career steps even if it is not with the BMW.
In BMW Group Russia I was leaded by the very professional GM – Mr. Kremer. Moreover as because Russia comes to be very aggressive developing market within last few years I get the perfect chance to be on a top of this “wave” and to see myself how the small market transforms into big and important market with all the ensuing consequences.

Cons

Having good experience from German management I can’t say same for Russian management team. And sometimes I met typical Russian old fart employees. Team was not very solid, friendly and helpful for each other but this is more because of Russian mentality. Fluctuation was very high due to low salary (comparing to the other automotive brands) and low career growth.

Advice to Senior Management

Take a closer look to your employees’ mood and problems. Talking with them personally is much more effective than having massive corporate events where presence is a must but not a free-will. Pay attention that the phrase “this is not my responsibility” still does often appear even after the GM’s prohibition on it (with this “Siberian Hardness” article).