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American Geophysical Union

Engaged Employer

Membership Association that Operates More like a Business - Major Change Coming in 2020 - Program Manager American Geophysical Union Employee Review

4.0
Nov 6, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I've been with AGU for the better half of a decade. The mission and people are the most rewarding parts of the organization. Leadership is very strong, with a fantastic CEO, COO, and Board. The balance between the responsibilities of the Board and the scientific Council are well laid out. HR made an overhaul to our review system and merit increase...very much for the better. Goals are dynamic and you meet with your supervisor quarterly to discuss them. Supervisors are able to recommend spot bonuses and promotions on a quarterly basis. And your yearly increase is uniform across the organization based on the market and not tied to performance. The benefits are average, I'd say. The nicest perk is PTO payout. You basically get an extra pay check at the end of the year if you qualify.

Cons

Most of the issues at AGU are not unique to the organization - siloed departments, overworked staff, cranky members, etc. The executive leadership and senior staff are aware of these issues. AGU's CEO will be leaving the organization in March 2020. She has been superb in her role. Like any organization with change at the top, 2020 (and maybe 2021) will be a little rocky.

Explore other reviews about American Geophysical Union

5.0
Oct 1, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Compelling mission that is both inspiring and motivational. Above-average salaries, great benefits. Co-workers who are dedicated to AGU goals and live AGU values. Permanent CEO is open to feedback from all staff, holds open office hours, is transparent. She also devotes time to building good relationships with our volunteers and reminds them about the achievements of the hard-working staff. Government actions have meant lower revenue but she has done a great job growing our international connections.

Cons

Like many nonprofits, AGU is feeling the pain of government actions (i.e. member scientists getting fired and reduced grants going to those who employ our members). That has resulted in staff reductions that hurt - personally and for everyone else’s workload. There are limited promotion possibilities because of few vacancies in upper management.

1.0
Feb 27, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Pay is competitive Fridays off during the summer Flexible

Cons

CEO and upper management are looking out for themselves Too heavy organization - number of VP’s is greater than some departments. People fired or laid off at lower levels and the work has to be absorbed by people who are already overloaded Several bosses are very poor people managers. Their style is borderline abusive and they are bullies and they retaliate if you speak up. Culture of fear is rampant in the organization. Opportunities for promotion are non existent - unless you are able to do some serious brown nosing to senior management. Someone need to analyze the meteoric rise of several individuals in a very short amount of tine

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