British Council reviews

Nepotism/favouritism is rife. Questionable leadership on a global scale. Pay is ridiculously low. Very little promotion & encouragement to progress-unless you’re a favourite. Very bureaucratic. Wrong people in the wrong roles - nothing gets done & there are frequent meetings, about meetings about meetings without getting anything done. People in senior positions cannot lead; bullying is common especially from leaders who are unable to appreciate & bolster team members who haven’t lost their morale yet due to incompetence, arrogance & ego. Money is mismanaged to a horrendous degree-overspending on vanity projects with no real results is common. HR is virtually non-existent-everything is being contracted overseas. Bonus system is antiquated & reflective on how much sucking up is done over your actual performance & ability in a role. Leadership takes no accountability or provides support for staff other than “speak to EAP” Colleagues taking Voluntary Exit have had very little communication, no support & many won’t be paid their severance package for another 3 mths after leaving - which is a disgrace

The organisation is by far the worst org I have ever worked at. It's toxic culture coupled with the bleak financial situation is enough to drive anyone potty. The organisation is currently facing financial hardship (which is public knowledge, google British Council financial situation), and is so close to becoming insolvent. Loads of redundancies are currently taking place and they have just offered a Voluntary Exit programme for any staff to take voluntary redundancy. Currently going through yet another transformation, where more people will become redundant. I would think twice before getting caught up in this sinking ship. Pay is rubbish, bonuses are non-existent, and development? I don't think they have ever heard of developing their staff. If you are looking to work in a toxic culture, with no opportunities and hierarchal issues, this is the place for you...