Chaotic, no meritocracy, Chinese colleagues get preferential treatment, internal politics. - Business Development Alibaba Group Employee Review

1.0
1 Mar 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

High business growth. Innovation leader in China. Ambitious growth strategy and growth targets. Equity linked compensation. Great place to learn to speak Mandarin.

Cons

Strategy changes few times per year resulting in reorganisations and it impacts job security, team morale and internal growth opportunities. Key decision makers are in China, international offices execute with little input. Chinese colleagues have better chance at promotion especially at more senior positions. Chinese colleagues cluster and don't mingle with international colleagues. Terrible work life balance, meetings are regularly scheduled on Beijing time leading to many midnight calls and emailing. Meetings quickly switch to Chinese if one attendee doesn't speak well English to the detriment of international colleagues. Senior meetings are completely in Chinese. Chaotic "startup" environment. Cult like culture of glorifying the founders, emphasis on personal sacrifice for benefit of the team, company and country. Questionable transferable skills and knowledge.

Explore other reviews about Alibaba Group

5.0
19 Feb 2026
Anonymous intern
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

good for work and life balance

Cons

salary not competitively, so keep an eye

4.0
17 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Large-scale systems experience Strong technical learning and growth Competitive compensation Work on AI, cloud, and e-commerce products used by millions Good résumé value for future opportunities

Cons

Long hours / intense work culture High pressure and fast deadlines Work-life balance can be poor on some teams Organizational changes can happen frequently Communication and cultural barriers for some international employees

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All