Shell reviews

As others consistently note, there is a considerable amount of bureaucracy, with multiple reviews and processes required for every project. This is no different than other major companies. One unique thing within Shell is the increased importance of cultivating one's professional network within the company for continued success. It was confided to me that management, when determining ranking and performance ratings, takes into account if others in the organization know of you, and what their opinions are. As a warning to earlier career professionals, re. Shell and most other majors, be aware that once one reaches age 50 one becomes increasingly vulnerable to industry downturns, particularly if one is at a higher salary grade on a technical ladder through either promotion or transfer back to technical from a management position. One should not assume one will be able to remain employed past 55. Also, strive to never make an enemy in management, as I have repeatedly observed they will always seek revenge during the next layoff.

Not a place for short term (less than 20 year) employment. Teams are not communicative with other stake holding teams, groups within an umbrella of operations (i.e.: accounting, HR) do not know one another or what functions are held by individuals, so getting work flows moving is difficult. Getting decisions made is a heroic effort and takes a year of meetings to get all stake holders on board. Long term employees see this as "getting buy-in" meanwhile the plan being decided on is now out of date and new factors are brought in, all with no action happening. I know a co-worker in a different area that sat on 5 months of calls, only to have the final call to discuss who they would hand off the project to since no one could make a decision. If you can deal with these kinds of issues, the pay is steady and job movement is encouraged every 4 years so you won't get stale in a role.