Toxic Workplace - General Manager Old Navy Employee Review

1.0
Jun 14, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great benefits and generous paid time off.

Cons

Profits over people. Do not be fooled by people-first initiatives and benefits package. Despite solid sales growth, they choose to demote and eliminate leadership positions across the nation. Severely understaffed in many locations for both managers and associates, but refuse to negotiate their mediocre pay rates, because "while other brands may pay better, Old Navy's culture is better" Beyond micromanaging - Endless communications and last minute deadlines. Photos and surveys due constantly to verify you've completed a task. Constantly adding hours and hours of conference calls and micromanaging touch bases throughout the week, and not understanding why you can't effectively run your store. As a GM, you do not decide the pay increases for the individuals on your team. You still write their performance reviews, and someone who doesn't even read it will decide your teams annual raises. Under performers often receive higher increases than top performers. Upper leadership will take advantage of your desire to grow and develop by offering you endless stretch assignments and "expert" roles. The majority of these lead to nowhere, and only offer to take workload off of their plates while piling it onto yours. Customers are abusive. Generous PTO, but good luck actually using it. This job will destroy your mental health and get you nowhere.

Explore other reviews about Old Navy

5.0
Apr 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I’ve stayed with Old Navy through my entire undergrad and grad school experience. The best part about working here is how flexible they are with your schedule—they really work with you to make sure you can balance your shifts around classes and finals.

Cons

he holiday season is tough because Black Friday is now a mandatory 8-hour shift for everyone—no exceptions. Also, the attendance policy has become much stricter recently. They use a point system where you accumulate points for being even a minute late, which feels a bit extreme when you've been a loyal employee for years. It definitely makes the environment feel more rigid than it used to be.

2.0
May 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

You might meet some lifelong friends! Long tenure if you are willing to give up everything to try to be a successful employee Good EAP program for short term intensive therapy…

Cons

Public criticism, condescending communication, inconsistent accountability, and fear-based management styles became increasingly common. Feedback often felt reactive rather than constructive, and many employees did not feel psychologically safe speaking openly about concerns. There was also a significant lack of consistency between leaders and stores. Expectations changed constantly, communication was often unclear, and favoritism sometimes impacted accountability and decision-making. Long-term employees who consistently stepped up during difficult periods often felt taken for granted rather than appreciated. Reporting to HR will get you no where. You will be gaslit if you choose to speak up.

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