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The Open University

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Bullying management and climate of fear - Role In Business Development The Open University Employee Review

1.0
Feb 9, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The Open University is a great organisation which I used to love working in. It does genuinely inspirational work and is full of really good people. A particular benefit is that staff can study the university courses for free.

Cons

Unfortunately my university unit is not in a good place. People are anxious and fearful and mostly just keeping their heads down in survival mode. This is due to a senior manager with an appalling leadership style. People are belittled and humiliated on a daily basis. The first question you learn to ask when you get in is 'what mood is he in today'. People are shouted at and threatened with losing their jobs on a regular basis. If you have an idea then you had better make sure it is one which will be approved of before voicing it. The people who were prepared to try and change things have all left - mostly not of their own accord.

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3.0
Mar 12, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
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Pros

Timing helps me with my family management

Cons

Micro management can get quite stifling

2.0
Aug 12, 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Hybrid working approach Annual leave entitlement Nice colleagues ‘Open to all’ education offering

Cons

Excessive workload and late hours on a consistent basis No clear progression routes Lots of people hired on temporary contracts Blame culture Management who pretend to listen but do not follow through with action Superficial focus on mental health and well-being which does not translate into reality based on unacceptable workloads and late hours Unclear priorities and moving targets Poor behaviour Last minute approach

6
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