As someone who has experienced the best side of PEI, it is disheartening to witness the company’s current state. The culture has shifted drastically, and not for the better. Below are my key concerns:
1. Unrealistic Targets and Lack of Autonomy
Targets are now dictated by the board, with no space for team-level input or strategic flexibility. There is little to no room for proposing meaningful improvements or initiatives, resulting in a demotivating environment. This is a stark departure from previous years, where innovation and ownership were encouraged.
2. Toxic Inter-Team Dynamics
Hostility between departments is increasingly evident. A culture of unhealthy competition has taken root, replacing what used to be a spirit of collaboration. The atmosphere now feels desperate and divisive, rather than collectively ambitious.
3. Rigid and Counterproductive In-Office Attendance Policies
In-office attendance is monitored in a punitive manner, reminiscent of school-style enforcement. The former trust-based, flexible work model enabled employees to operate at their best. That trust has eroded. A one-size-fits-all approach fails to consider individual working styles and has clearly impacted morale and productivity.
4. Inadequate Compensation and Appraisal Processes
Salaries remain below market rates, with minimal increases that do not reflect performance, inflation, or increased cost of living. The recent wage adjustment was negligible, especially when factoring in tax and commuting costs. There is no transparent or structured system for performance-based appraisals or salary reviews.
The current environment is driven by fear rather than purpose, control rather than trust. It’s difficult to stay motivated when genuine effort and performance are neither recognised nor rewarded. For a company that once valued its people, this cultural shift is deeply disappointing.
