Pros

The people, product, and the pay structure were all great at one time. It is a great industry to work in as it is a life changing product and one that is a dream purchase for many.

Cons

Sink or swim, either you survive or not. There was very little training for anything and if results weren't created there were layoffs and firings. As a publicly held company pressure was from everywhere to produce...produce the best product, produce themost efficient systems, produce the highest sales, etc. It was great when money flowed and meetings were in Vegas and entertainment could include nice dinners and such, but since the bad investments that lost hundreds of millions of cash reserves and increased debt...the company will now fold.

Advice to Senior Management

Too late, chapter 7 is just around the corner

Pros

Earning potential is good when the company was profitable. Years ago, each location's management team had a great deal of autonomy and bonuses were calculated based on the performance of the location. There are still many excellent people with a great deal of knowledge at Fleetwood. It is fun to work with recreational vehicles, particularly expensive motor homes. The RV industry is somewhat like a family and many people I have known through Fleetwood have gone on to other companies within the industry. There used to be a great deal of opportunity for advancement as long as one was willing to relocate. Unfortunately, the opportunity is far less today.

Cons

Poor planning and below average execution. The RV industry is extremely competitive and Fleetwood has been losing the battle over the past several years. Many upper management changes and a lack of contiuity in philosophy. Company doesn't seem to have any core values anymore. The RV market is very bad right now but many of Fleetwoods problems are self-inflicted.

Advice to Senior Management

Dramatically reduce corporate overheads.

Pros

Great people to work with. Good pay, good benefits, good hours. Career opportunities are available for those who want to climb the corporate ladder. Most of the people who work for Fleetwood started out in the lower ranks of employment. Employees are kept informed of corporate information. The compensation is acceptable, and benefits, although acceptable, were better in past years. Employee morale is good, even with the plant closures. Recognition is given for a job well done. Senior leadership is well accepted. Employees are treated with respect and dignity.

Cons

The plant is closing, due to the current nature of the economy.

Advice to Senior Management

Keep fighting for survival! Fleetwood has been a good company to work for.