An unprofessional bunch of bros without a plan for the future - Anonymous employee ASTOUND Employee Review

1.0
14 Jun 2023
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Truly, honestly cannot think of a reason you’d want to do this to your career.

Cons

Single-handedly the most toxic, unprofessional, and depressing work environment I have ever experienced. All the decent senior leadership left around 15 months ago and the new leadership team that came in is entirely built on nepotism. They do not care about their employees, at all. You are being worked to the ground and you receive zero support. People are leaving in masses so there’s an insane amount of chaos the remaining team has to deal with. Hence there is no learning or job growth. Most new leadership hires are buddies with zero talent, wit, or ambition. The language used in meetings would even be considered rude in an 8th graders‘ locker room. Most projects are sold by accident, not on purpose. Senior leadership has no idea how to move this company forward in a sustainable manner. There is also a shocking lack of diversity. Benefits are lackluster, pay is way below average. This is one of those workplaces that consider free pizza once a quarter a work perk.

avatar
ASTOUND Response
2y
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We appreciate hearing about your personal experience. As you know the recruitment market has been ever so changing during this great resignation period for both employee and employer. Indeed, we have noticed some turnover occur , as many other companies have as well, due to the changing needs of our employees as well as the industry. We wanted to let you know that we care very deeply for our employees and make sure to celebrate milestones together as a group, through organizing Monthly birthday treats, Anniversary acknowledgements and planning fun activities each month! This month we’re organizing a barbeque and games. Next month we’re having a family & friends’ sports day! We are dedicated to always improving our benefits package, which includes many services such as: 1. Consult + where you may talk with health care professionals, get prescription refills, find mental health and wellbeing specialist; 2. Teladoc, where you have access to doctors/second opinions on medical concerns that is available to yourself and extended family; 3. The EFAP program which includes clinical counselling, work health life advice, professional work advice, etc. We also have an RRSP and Tax-free saving account program for our employees , as well as many perks, including Goodlife discounted memberships. A work-life balance is highly encouraged for our colleagues, and we offer wellness days that employees can take advantage of to take good care of their mental health and wellbeing. In addition, we have an annual performance review program where monetary increases are evaluated at that time. ASTOUND places a great deal of importance on our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. . Our recruitment process is extensive, and we do take great pride in making sure that we hire candidates based on experience, qualifications, and the right fit. We aim to create not only a great place to work, but also an environment where our employees, customers, and the communities we operate exist in a safe, productive, and enriching environment for everyone. As you are a current employee, we are happy to hear you are still with us as you must enjoy the perks mentioned above, and do encourage you to reach out to your manager/HR to discuss ways in which we can improve. Hoping this addresses your concerns and thanking you for the feedback.

Explore other reviews about ASTOUND

5.0
9 Jun 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Culture of Innovation: ASTOUND Group is a powerhouse of creativity, design, and experiential marketing. Every day feels like an opportunity to push boundaries, with a strong emphasis on bold ideas and high-impact execution. People-First Leadership: The leadership team is approachable and genuinely invested in employee growth. Regular check-ins, performance recognition, and support for personal development make you feel valued and heard. Collaboration at Its Best: ASTOUND thrives on teamwork. From designers to fabricators to account executives, cross-functional collaboration is a strength. You get to work with incredibly talented individuals across disciplines. Fast-Paced and Dynamic: No two days are the same. If you love variety, creative problem-solving, and being part of fast-moving, high-profile projects—this is the place for you. Opportunities to Grow: Whether you're in project management, finance, creative, or operations, there are ample chances to take on more responsibility, lead initiatives, and expand your skills. Global Presence, Boutique Feel: ASTOUND works with some of the biggest brands globally, but still maintains the intimacy of a boutique agency. This means you have real influence on your work and client relationships.

Cons

High Expectations: The bar is set high, and the pace can be intense, especially around major event and show timelines. It’s not a 9–5 environment, and time management is crucial. Scaling Pains: Like any rapidly growing company, some systems and processes are still evolving. But leadership is clearly committed to improving infrastructure and communication.

1.0
12 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

If you want firsthand experience with repeated layoffs and minimal severance, this is a very efficient environment

Cons

The company has been losing money for years and continues to cut headcount. Layoffs come with roughly one month of severance regardless of tenure. Accrued PTO is not paid out, and equity/stock handling is unclear and unfavorable. Layoff terms feel one-sided and not aligned with standard practice. There is a noticeable pattern in who is being let go versus who is being retained or promoted. HR and leadership communication is opaque and often comes across as dismissive or rude.

1
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All