Rhodia (US) – “Dysfunctional Prototype. How not to run a division.”

Pros

You get a paycheck? Actually, the flexible time off from work is the single benefit. You can learn a lot about yourself in working with no leadership. Projects and production are all up to you, therefore the knowledge is yours to acquire and use elsewhere.

Cons

Management seems confused as to how to run efficient systems. Very high attrition rates. Male dominiate atmosphere with an affinity for female distractions. Interdeparmental relationships is the main source of unfair favortism and promotions. No room for upward mobility. Females get little or no respect with this organization, even though is very evident that the female personnel account for 90% of critical tasks in the plant. There is only one female in management within the plan with over 150 employees. This place is what I would call boot camp training. If you had any other aspirations, forget it. Just get the knowledge and run. I have not been able to do this because I am changing careers and completing my education in another field.

Advice to Senior Management

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Use the talent you have (females) and watch your organization grow to new heights. Get rid of the dead weight in management by following the high level of attrition in specific departments. Mandate rules for personal relationships how they benefit the participants. Follow a platform that works not every division of Rhodia resembles a failing model. Look to those divisions and model their business practices. Keep communication open, and not leave people in the dark. Knowledge is power and not to the detriment of the whole. Give credit where it is due (front-line). Reward work based on tangible performance and not how well supervisors like you.