I have seen really bad examples of middle management… great contrast with the potential in younger people
Politics are more important than work… you would not expect it in this company (only me?)
Innovation? depending on what you do…
Your progress depends on favoritism, that reflects in your ratings, that make it possible for you to progress… you can have great ratings if your manager likes you, even if your performance is not that good
If you are not in the right project, you get no visibility
Growing size leads to difficulty in taking quick decisions
Performance ratings are not always fair. For example, if you get a promotion you definitely can't get a good rating next quarter
There is not an impartial HR representative in case you have problems with your manager
Very often over qualified people for basic positions, and lack of possibilities to change - make sure you know what you will do before joining!
Work/life balance depending on your manager - was not able to play fussball in months (yes, I am motivated, but don't want to work on weekends to get a promotion)
Managers find metrics that make no sense and measure the team on a curve they themselves could never meet.
New learning for me: not only pro-motion but de-motion as well exists
Referral system not clear: referred bright people that could not get hired