Blue Coat Systems – “Fast and Flaky, don't expect much”

Pros

Smart people at the lower levels, lots of challenges available. Solid product line.

Cons

Senior Management doesn't seem to be able to execute a consistent strategy. Decision-making capabilities are weak and always have to flow from the top, resulting in long periods of time needed to make relatively simple decisions. Extreme micro-management. Very top-heavy with senior leadership (Director and up), lots of whom are very new, limiting career advancement opportunities for people who have been there for a while. Poor communication about corporate vision and goals.

Advice to Senior Management

Pick a strategy and commit to it for a 12-18 mo period. Drive decision making capabilities down to lower levels and trust your managers to do the right thing. Commit to developing internal talent to promote. You have some really smart and talented people who can take your company a long way, trust them to do it.