Systemic incompetence and politics - General Manager Samsung Electronics Employee Review

1.0
4 Dec 2013
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

International ambitions because of increasingly competitive domestic market has forced Korean EPC companies overseas. Strong potential because of Samsung Group's brand name and balance sheet. Open-minded to a variety of deal types and geographic locations.

Cons

The company does not operate on meritocracy. The tenure upon hire system for the Koreans and age-based advancement system drastically reduces employees' incentive to perform and instead propagates a lot of politics. More importantly, this environment slows down the skill development of its employees. There is widespread incompetence across multiple divisions, whether, technical, financial, legal, or corporate management. For example, investment committee heads who don't understand basic finance concepts or technical directors who can't read drawings. If one enters as a specialist in a certain field, Koreans will block every attempt to improve existing systems because of their fear of being exposed and general resentment about being paid less than foreigners. Most foreign hires are reduced to figurehead positions with no decision making power.

Explore other reviews about Samsung Electronics

5.0
15 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good. Lovve working with them

Cons

No Cons, I enjoyed my time here

5.0
24 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I've worked at a number of companies throughout my career, but this Silicon Valley company stands out as one of the best experiences I've had professionally. From day one, the culture here is genuinely different — and in the best way possible. The team is incredibly collaborative. Whether you're working cross-functionally or within your own department, people are always willing to roll up their sleeves and help. There's no ego here — just a shared commitment to doing great work together.

Cons

No cons for now so can't say nothing

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