Toxic Culture Where Directors Play Favorites - Strategist 829 Studios Employee Review

2.0
9 May 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The company offers a fast-paced environment where you can learn a lot quickly, especially if you’re early in your career. You’ll have the chance to work with a diverse mix of clients across various industries, which keeps the work interesting and dynamic. Many team members are smart, talented, and genuinely kind. While the benefits are fairly standard, the agency environment provides valuable exposure to different aspects of digital marketing and client services.

Cons

Since the company became private equity-backed, the culture has shifted significantly. Leadership appears more focused on maximizing output than supporting employee well-being. Long hours are the norm—many team members regularly work over 9-hour days and exceed 150 hours per month. The Paid Media, Project Management, and Account Management teams are consistently overworked with little relief. Favoritism is a persistent issue, with leadership frequently hiring friends or external candidates rather than promoting high-performing internal team members. Recognition for hard work is often lacking, and policies are enforced inconsistently depending on personal relationships. Despite messaging around “work-life balance,” employees are often told they’re underperforming and face job insecurity if they don’t meet unrealistic expectations. Turnover is high, with several employees leaving just months into their roles. Additionally, concerns around gender pay equity remain unaddressed, with many women being paid less than male counterparts in similar positions.

Explore other reviews about 829 Studios

5.0
20 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

It is a fine place

Cons

Slow advancement and slow promotions

5.0
4 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I've been at 829 for several years and have had the opportunity to grow alongside the company. One of the things I appreciate most is the people. The team is incredibly smart, supportive, and always willing to jump in and help. There are a lot of genuinely good people here who care about doing great work and helping each other succeed. I've had the chance to work with clients across a wide variety of industries, take on new challenges, and continue growing my career as the company has grown. Like any agency, it's fast-paced and there are times when priorities shift quickly. The company has grown significantly over the years, which means processes continue to evolve and teams are constantly adapting. That can be challenging at times, but it also creates opportunities to have a real impact on how things are done. The leadership team is approachable, open to feedback, and invested in developing people. I've personally benefited from mentorship, growth opportunities, and the trust to take on bigger responsibilities throughout my time.

Cons

-Agency life can be busy and fast-moving - Priorities can shift as the business grows - Growth sometimes outpaces process, requiring teams to be adaptable

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