I interviewed in January for a Senior Director role after an initial screening with HR. During that screening, the salary range discussed had a stated maximum base that was significantly higher than the compensation ultimately presented to me.
Following interviews with senior leadership, I received a verbal offer — notably below both the previously discussed range and significantly below my current base salary. The shift in compensation expectations was never proactively addressed or explained. The offer was delivered verbally only, and I was discouraged from receiving written documentation at that stage, which made it difficult to properly evaluate the opportunity.
When I expressed that the salary was materially below expectations and asked about flexibility, I was told there would be follow-up after leadership discussions. Instead of receiving that update, I was later contacted and asked whether I planned to accept the original offer. Subsequent communication referenced internal reviews and potential flexibility, but no substantive follow-up ever materialized. The process ultimately pivoted to mention of a reorganization and a new incoming SVP, creating further uncertainty around the role and offer.
The overall experience felt inconsistent and lacking in transparency — particularly around compensation alignment. If flexibility was not possible, a direct and straightforward conversation would have been far more professional than shifting messaging and unfulfilled commitments.
Candidates should be prepared for a potentially disorganized and opaque offer process.
While it was disappointing to experience such unprofessionalism, the experience did allow me time to pursue and secure a stronger opportunity elsewhere.