Poor company, poor training, unrealistic expectations
Pros
Benefits are good that are offered, select support teams are good within the business. opportunities to see all different industries and applications/
Cons
Unfortunately, my experience working at WIKA was extremely disappointing. Management lacks clear direction and structure, which creates constant confusion and frustration across teams. Decisions are often reactive rather than strategic, with priorities changing frequently and little explanation given to employees. The business appears to be overly focused on sales numbers, often at the expense of people, processes, and long-term sustainability. This results in unrealistic expectations, poor planning, and pressure being pushed down the organisation without the tools or support needed to succeed. There is a noticeable toxic culture, where open communication is discouraged and challenging poor decisions is not welcomed. Favouritism and “yes-men” behaviour seem to be rewarded, while genuine improvement ideas are ignored. Collaboration between departments is weak, and accountability at senior levels is lacking. Overall, it feels like an organisation with strong products but weak leadership. Without major changes to management approach, structure, and culture, it’s a difficult place to grow, feel valued, or do your best work. The HR leadership is ineffective and contributes significantly to the toxic culture. Rather than acting as a support function for employees or managers, HR appears detached, reactive, and more focused on protecting senior leadership than addressing real issues on the ground. There is little evidence of strategy, structure, or genuine people leadership. Employee concerns are handled inconsistently, transparency is lacking, and difficult conversations are often avoided altogether. HR policies feel selectively enforced, which undermines trust and credibility. Instead of driving engagement, development, or cultural improvement, HR enables poor management behaviours by failing to challenge them. Feedback is not welcomed, and raising issues can feel career-limiting rather than constructive. Overall, HR leadership adds bureaucracy without value and reinforces a culture where accountability is weak, communication is poor, and employee wellbeing is treated as a tick-box exercise rather than a priority. A hire / fire culture revolving door. Management just pile on responsibility with little reward.