Pros
Working as a Department Manager at Essendant offers benefits like a collaborative, team-oriented, and "family-like" culture in some locations, along with potential opportunities for overtime, and, for some, rewarding, fast-paced work with decent pay. Some, but not all, managers may experience good, supportive, and transparent leadership, with opportunities for career growth. Key Pros of working for an Essendant Department Manager include: Supportive Culture: Many reviewers describe the environment as having good, collaborative, and team-oriented, with friendly coworkers. Job Stability/Tenure: Some managers have found long-term success, with some, for example, starting as temps and working their way up. Opportunities for Overtime: The role often provides opportunities for overtime, which can be a financial benefit. Flexibility & Benefits: Some departments may offer good work-life balance (e.g., weekends, paid holidays), and some roles include hybrid options. Challenging Environment: The fast-paced, "time-critical" nature of the work is described as fulfilling for those who enjoy a challenge.
Cons
Cons of working as a Department Manager at Essendant frequently include a high-stress, toxic work environment, intense micromanagement, and long hours (10-14 hour shifts). Managers often deal with poor upper management, frequent layoffs, and lack of support. The role is described as having little room for growth, high turnover, and favoritism. Key cons for a Department Manager at Essendant based on employee reviews: Management & Leadership: Reports indicate a disconnect between upper management and the floor, with a lack of effective direction. Some managers feel they are not given the resources to succeed and are instead micromanaged. Work Environment: The culture is often described as hostile, negative, or toxic. Work-Life Balance: Long, demanding hours are common, often with unexpected or last-minute overtime. Job Security & Stability: Frequent layoffs, restructuring, and site closures create a feeling of instability. Career Growth: There is limited room for advancement and high turnover.