|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Mar 15th, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
|
|
|
Taking Extreme Ownership While Growing to the Next Phase
|
|
First and foremost, there is a great deal of room for self-motivated individuals to take the initiative and set their own course. Since its founding in 2014, AV has seen a meteoric rise in assets raised and investments made. This creates big opportunities for new leaders within the organization as it moves past the "startup" phase of its lifecycle to something more conventionally institutionalized. One of the guiding principles of the organization is to "take extreme ownership" of issues, projects, and deliverables; everyone gets a chance to put that into practice without being corralled into a limited role in their own narrow lane.
Second, the world of venture capital is fundamentally rooted in tomorrow's groundbreaking innovations. From the next space station, to solutions to today's untreatable diseases, to a wide spectrum of applications of AI, the business of the company is intellectually challenging and engaging.
Third, you're working alongside dedicated, talented people. Our colleagues can bring out the best or the worst in us, and the personnel at AV set a high standard in terms of quality and quantity of work.
|
Having not yet reached escape velocity from the "startup" phase, there is still a good deal of change within the organization that take some effort to stay up to speed on.
Some prior employees brought a negative attitude towards their jobs and the organization (as evidenced in recent reviews), but they've largely moved on and those issues have improved, in some cases dramatically.
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
|
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
4.0
|
0.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
2.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Mar 20th, 2024 12:38AM
|
Mar 20th, 2024 12:38AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Mar 14th, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Managing Partner
|
|
|
Fluid, Dynamic Environment to work in...
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|
We are quickly moving from a culture of accountability to a performance culture where we reward the doers.
|
If you can't thrive in a startup environment where the only constant is change, you will not survive here.
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
APPROVE
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
Fair doesn't mean equal. Reward to doers. Poor more resources behind the teams who are making it happen.
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
0.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Mar 17th, 2024 05:28AM
|
Mar 17th, 2024 05:28AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Mar 10th, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Corporate Office Employee
|
Manchester, NH
|
|
A Balanced Reflection on Alumni Ventures Amidst Varied Reviews
|
|
As someone with experience at Alumni Ventures, I want to present a review that aims to strike a balance between acknowledgment of its positives and candid discussion of its shortcomings.
Let's start with the positives. Undoubtedly, AV has pockets of excellence within its teams. From dynamic leadership in Technology, Investor Relations, and some of the Managing Partners, to dedicated individuals who fuel innovation and collaboration, there are bright spots within the organization. These teams exemplify what effective leadership and teamwork can achieve in a healthy, professional setting.
|
However, beneath the surface, there are genuine concerns that warrant attention. One prominent issue is the prevalence of a management style reminiscent of the 1990s, emphasizing relentless work hours, under the pretense that it is a “demanding, fast-paced environment”, all while compensating employees at a level no more than any corporate setting. I cannot fail to mention attendance monitoring, asking each individual to update an attendance tracker and sending reports to their managers each week. This outdated approach to management fails to acknowledge the importance of balance and the evolving needs of modern employees.
It is also important to address two critical aspects that significantly impact the organizational culture - diversity and pay equity. Despite strides made in many workplaces to foster inclusivity, diversity remains an area where Alumni Ventures falls short. The workforce lacks representation from diverse backgrounds, and efforts to promote inclusivity seem superficial, at best. Pay equity is a different story, not meant for Glassdoor.
Moreover, as one moves closer to interactions with executive team members, their experience and leadership limitations become apparent. While possessing technical knowledge and individual talent, many executives need to gain broader business acumen and leadership skills necessary for steering the organization toward sustained success. This deficiency in leadership often translates into reactionary decision-making and an inability to foresee long-term consequences, leading to a constant feeling of whiplash in top-down decision making.
Adding to this, are themes of favoritism and nepotism, which have left some employees feeling disenfranchised and overlooked. The recent rounds of layoffs, where some were seemingly spared due to connections rather than merit, only serve to exacerbate existing tensions and eliminate trust in the organization's commitment to fairness and equity.
Additionally, it's important to address a common sentiment expressed in some of these comments: the idea that if you're looking to "coast or cruise," this might not be the place for you. While this may seem like they only “expect the best”, it's essential to question whether this narrative is truly reflected in the organization’s success, or if multiple layoffs paint a different picture of the success of the business. Striking a balance between work and personal life shouldn't be synonymous with coasting; rather, it should reflect a workplace culture that values employee well-being and productivity.
In summary, Alumni Ventures is a complex organization to work for, with both strengths and weaknesses shaping the employee experience. While there are undoubtedly areas of greatness, there is also a pressing need for modernization, equitable treatment, and a shift towards more visionary leadership at the helm. For those considering joining the organization, it's crucial to weigh these factors carefully and enter with eyes wide open to the realities that lie within.
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
DISAPPROVE
|
0.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
2.0
|
2.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
No
|
|
4.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Mar 12th, 2024 07:59PM
|
Mar 12th, 2024 07:59PM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Mar 1st, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
|
Manchester, NH
|
|
Transparent Review of AV by Current Employee
|
|
Coming from a large corporation where you are just a number, I've appreciated my time here at AV for the past 5 years.
From the very beginning, the team was transparent about the expectations associated with working for a startup company. This honesty should allow individuals to make informed decisions about their fit within the organization.
AV offers a dynamic work environment. You won't be stuck in a monotonous routine here at AV. The ever-changing nature of tasks ensures each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth.
The company also values perseverance and resilience, making it an ideal environment for individuals who are determined to succeed in a fast-paced setting.
Working alongside highly knowledgeable teams provides an excellent opportunity for learning and professional growth.
The company offers a generous unlimited PTO policy.
|
While the company's high standards can be motivating, they may also lead to increased pressure and stress for some employees. Those who struggle to meet these expectations may find the work environment daunting.
The emphasis on grit and perseverance may result in a work culture that can be demanding at times. This may not be suitable for individuals who prefer a more relaxed pace.
**Alumni Ventures is not the place for individuals seeking a job where they can simply coast along and collect a paycheck without putting in substantial effort. Those looking for a more relaxed or laid-back work environment may find the company's expectations challenging to meet.
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
APPROVE
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
Continuous feedback discussions with employees. Otherwise, keep up the great work!
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
6.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Mar 4th, 2024 05:01AM
|
Mar 4th, 2024 05:01AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Mar 1st, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Managing Partner
|
Boston, MA
|
|
Fun, intense, entrepreneurial, impactful place
|
|
Smart, amazing teammates
Speed, intensity
Investing in the future
Entrepreneurial energy
|
High expectations of productivity
4x days in office
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
APPROVE
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
6.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Mar 3rd, 2024 04:32AM
|
Mar 3rd, 2024 04:32AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Feb 13th, 2024 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Office Administrator
|
|
|
Think Big: My Experience with Alumni Ventures
|
|
First and foremost, the company culture at Alumni Ventures is unparalleled. From day one, I felt welcomed, valued, and appreciated. The leadership team fosters an environment of inclusivity, open communication, and collaboration, which makes coming to work each day a joy. Alumni Ventures truly invests in the growth and development of its employees. Through various training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, I've been able to enhance my skills and advance in my career. The company's commitment to professional development not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to the overall success of the organization. Alumni Ventures prioritizes work-life balance, which is crucial for office administrators like myself. Flexible work hours, remote work options, and generous vacation policies ensure that employees can maintain a healthy equilibrium between their professional and personal lives.
|
One potential area for improvement at Alumni Ventures is the streamlining of communication channels across departments. While the company excels in fostering a culture of collaboration and openness, there are occasional instances where communication between teams could be more seamless.
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
APPROVE
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
2.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Feb 16th, 2024 06:52PM
|
Feb 16th, 2024 06:52PM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Dec 4th, 2023 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
|
|
|
Exciting Fast Paced, Innovative Company
|
|
AV is incredibly fast paced and dynamic with constant innovation and improvement. It is exciting to work at AV. Everyone gets opportunities to work on new and varied work as new ideas for growth are developed and people are pulled in to work on them. The team is focused on constantly improving the investor experience and embraces everyone's input and opinions to make things better. AV is very tech focused, particularly on how best to leverage AI. AV actively works on building community and belonging across the team with social gatherings and outings, communal lunches and retreats.
|
AV is not a place to go if you want to coast, or just want a paycheck.
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
POSITIVE
|
1.0
|
APPROVE
|
0.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
4.0
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
No
|
|
0.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Jan 9th, 2024 03:10AM
|
Jan 9th, 2024 03:10AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Dec 21st, 2023 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
|
|
|
A Once-Promising Company in Rapid Decline
|
|
- A few remaining employees are knowledgeable, friendly, and competent.
- Working with exciting startups and prestigious VCs/Private equity firms.
|
- Executives and middle management are completely divorced from reality, resulting in catastrophic internal misalignment.
- Company is rife with nepotism, toxic inter-departmental feuds, and middle managers with little practical knowledge of the teams they're overseeing.
- Major initiatives and undertakings are determined by the CEO's random whims with no thought given to long-term ROI/viability/practicality.
- Any criticism, constructive or not, towards management is seen as disobedience and is actively retaliated against.
- If you are not white, Ivy-league educated, and don't have meaningful VC connections, you are treated as a third-class employee regardless of your work ethic and abilities.
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
DISAPPROVE
|
0.0
|
1.0
|
4.0
|
1.0
|
3.0
|
4.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
Organizations rot from the top-down and AV is no exception. With its current CEO at the helm, the company is failing its employees, its portfolio companies, and its investors.
Find a CEO that will act in the interest of the company first and foremost.
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
No
|
|
0.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Dec 22nd, 2023 05:31PM
|
Dec 22nd, 2023 05:31PM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Dec 16th, 2023 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Project Manager
|
New York, NY
|
|
A Disheartening Experience at Alumni Ventures
|
|
They aren’t none list here which is very sad.
|
I recently had the unfortunate opportunity to work at Alumni Ventures , and I must say that my experience was nothing short of deeply disappointing. The company's biased CEO, the hostile working environment, and the frequent layoffs all contributed to an extremely negative atmosphere and an overall lack of job security.
To begin with, the CEO's blatant bias was unmistakable. It was evident that certain employees were favored while others were ignored or treated poorly. This bias seeped into decision-making processes, promotions, and even day-to-day interactions. The lack of fairness and equal opportunities left many employees feeling undervalued and demotivated. If you are able to invest in his company you will be greatly liked, and no matter how bad you perform you will most likely be on his good list.
Moreover, the working environment at Alumni Ventures could only be described as hostile. Open communication was discouraged, creating an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. Constructive criticism was often met with aggression, making it challenging for employees to express their concerns or suggest improvements. This toxic environment took a toll on morale and hindered collaboration among team members.
Perhaps the most distressing aspect of working at Alumni Ventures was the frequent layoffs. The company seemed to have a revolving door policy when it came to its workforce, causing constant anxiety and uncertainty among employees. The lack of transparency and communication during these layoffs only added to the distress, leaving individuals feeling disposable and undervalued.
It is worth noting that the company's disregard for its employees' well-being was evident in other areas as well. There was a noticeable lack of investment in professional development, employee benefits were minimal, and work-life balance was virtually non-existent. These factors further contributed to the overall dissatisfaction and demotivation within the workforce.
In conclusion, I would not recommend Alumni Ventures even if this was your only choice.
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
DISAPPROVE
|
0.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
They think they know everything, but in reality they actually don’t they only care about you if you invest in their company, and if you give constant attention to the CEO that has no idea how to run his company but is too scare to admit that. Wake up executives, and stop thinking just because you went to an IVY school that you are smarter than anyone else.
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
4.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Dec 19th, 2023 02:13AM
|
Dec 19th, 2023 02:13AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|
|
private:avgfunds
|
https://www.glassdoor.com?employer_id=1532367
|
Dec 11th, 2023 12:00AM
|
Open
|
Open
|
Alumni Ventures
|
Manager
|
Manchester, NH
|
|
If you're reading this, run far away from this place
|
|
Company is filled with dedicated, hardworking people that are being mistreated left and right
|
I don't even know where to begin. All the negative reviews you're seeing are true.
This place has massively declined in morale and the executive leadership team cannot manage to steer this place back to the green. They've had to do 2 big workforce reductions in the last 2 years and each time they've let go of the head of HR. That shows how much they care about people. Teams are constantly being consolidated and stretched against their bandwidth.
The CEO places more emphasis on taking attendance and enforcing a mandatory in-office work schedule than he does at planning contingencies for a slow fundraising season.
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
NEGATIVE
|
-1.0
|
DISAPPROVE
|
0.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
2.0
|
1.0
|
1.0
|
1532367
|
Open
|
You aren't going to listen to me, why bother.
|
0.0
|
[]
|
REGULAR
|
No
|
No
|
|
1.0
|
Open
|
|
|
Dec 15th, 2023 03:24AM
|
Dec 15th, 2023 03:24AM
|
Alumni Ventures Group
|
|
|