A cautionary tale for product managers - Product Manager Affirm Employee Review

If you're considering joining the Product Management team, take some time to research the leadership (VPs & Directors). Several advanced internally more through politics than through demonstrated product leadership. The result is a hierarchical, insecure, and often hostile environment. Constructive dissent is discouraged — unless it comes from leadership, which often critiques others' work more to appear smarter than to build better products. Many team members feel the need to constantly manage optics and loyalty just to stay safe. There’s no cohesive product vision at this point. Priorities shift frequently, the strategy feels reactive and short-sighted, and much of the work is about catching up rather than leading. Innovation has stalled, morale is low, and projects often revolve around squeezing out minor revenue bumps rather than delivering meaningful impact. The compensation and benefits are strong, which is likely why many stay. But make no mistake — the culture is demoralizing, and unless you thrive in environments with condescending leadership, where politics outweigh product, it's worth thinking twice.