Pyramid Structured Organisation - Anonymous employee ALTEN Employee Review

1.0
Jul 26, 2019
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

None that are worth mentioning.

Cons

Alten UK's entire business strategy is somewhat different than any other company I have ever worked for. It is basically a commission based structure which relies on aggressive recruitment and brutish expansion. Built on the backs of those who have long since left; as it becomes clear after one or two years the full extent of this parasitic company. Recruiters receive commission for finding the engineers, business managers receive commission for bringing them on a customers project, and the engineers themselves receive commission for sending CV's to there respective business manager. To the extent that during your annual appraisal, if you have not sent in some of your friends or former colleagues CV's, it will effect your yearly performance (and annual raise). Instead of developing your career (as the business managers will continually tell you they plan to do), this pyramid structure attracts a very hungry and money oriented top level management, which cascades down into all areas of the business. Not an engineering company, its a recruitment company. With business managers more like salesmen. Not a company I want to support and not one I would recommend you to join (unless that is, like many of my colleagues, you plan to use them as a way into the UK market and once here, find something new).

Explore other reviews about ALTEN

5.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I have been with the company for several years and have had a very positive experience overall. The company offers strong opportunities for career growth, especially for employees who are proactive, take ownership, and consistently deliver results. Internal mobility and leadership opportunities are available for those looking to advance their careers. Compensation is competitive within the industry, and performance is generally recognized and rewarded. While there is always room for improvement, I feel that the company provides fair compensation and good opportunities to increase earnings through career progression. Management is supportive and accessible. As with any growing organization, I have found leadership to be committed to employee development and business success. There is a strong entrepreneurial culture that encourages initiative and accountability. One of the biggest strengths of the company is the variety of projects and clients. Employees have the opportunity to work across different industries, technologies, and business environments, which helps accelerate professional development and keeps the work interesting. Pros: * Strong career development opportunities * Diverse and challenging projects * Supportive and entrepreneurial culture * Exposure to a wide range of industries and clients Overall, I would recommend this company to professionals looking for growth, responsibility, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Cons

Fast-paced environment that requires adaptability High expectations for performance and ownership

3.0
Jun 17, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

• Talented employees who genuinely care about customers, consultants, and each other. • Strong technical expertise and exposure to large, complex client programs. • Opportunity to learn resilience, problem-solving, and how to operate in challenging environments. • Significant growth potential if organizational barriers can be addressed. • Many good people working hard to achieve success despite limited resources.

Cons

• Decision-making is often highly centralized and slow, limiting agility and responsiveness to market realities. • Leaders are frequently held accountable for ambitious growth objectives without corresponding authority, resources, or support. • Heavy emphasis on activity tracking, reporting, and process can outweigh focus on outcomes and execution. • Limited willingness to challenge long-standing practices, even when market conditions or employee feedback suggest change is needed. • Leadership diversity and diversity of thought remain opportunities for improvement. • Employee concerns are not always translated into meaningful action, which can contribute to disengagement and turnover.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All