Ares Management reviews

Some MDs and partners were promoted because of their relationships with decision makers and not by any actual achievement. These MDs and partners tout the importance of positive culture but openly play favorites towards ‘yes’ people who curry favor and don’t provide any differing opinions. Managers create pointless projects to appear like they’re doing something meaningful. Juniors are overworked but offshore teams don’t seem to be doing much. Associates feel demoralized with no avenue to provide feedback and those who express interest in other internal roles are blackballed and shunned by their managers. Some low performing employees are not managed out but reassigned to less technical roles where they can fly under the radar. There is no transparency whatsoever but the group recently announced that promotions are on hold which removes any chances of career growth for deserving employees. The firm itself seems impressive but compensation actually isn’t.

Despite being a global firm, Ares Management offers relatively few short-term assignment opportunities across its international offices. Employees seeking cross-border experience or rotational programs may find the options limited. Additionally, career progression tends to follow a more linear path, which can feel restrictive for those looking for diverse, accelerated growth through varied roles or geographies.