disgusting - Anonymous Oakley Capital Employee Review

- Some genuinely hardworking and talented colleagues (many of whom have since left) - Opportunity to learn quickly due to high pressure (though not in a sustainable way)

The culture here is deeply problematic and ultimately unsustainable. Employees are consistently overworked, with expectations to work unreasonable hours late into the night. There is little to no recognition for this effort—particularly within operations roles, where bonuses and incentives are noticeably absent. Leadership lacks integrity and professionalism. Decisions are often made without consulting teams, and there is a strong hierarchical structure that discourages open dialogue. Employees who speak up or challenge poor practices are sidelined or pushed out, while those who remain silent are more likely to progress. There is a pattern of blame-shifting, with individuals frequently being “thrown under the bus” rather than supported. Serious issues—ranging from mismanagement to team dysfunction—are routinely ignored or swept under the carpet. Frequent and seemingly arbitrary reshuffling of employees across teams creates confusion and instability, with no clear operational direction. Poor hiring decisions in recent years have significantly impacted team morale and performance, driving away many of the company’s strongest contributors. HR is ineffective and unresponsive. Repeated concerns raised by employees—covering mismanagement, workplace behaviour, and mental health impacts—are not properly addressed, despite substantial evidence. Overall, the environment takes a serious toll on mental health, and the lack of accountability at senior levels means nothing meaningfully improves.

Oakley gives you a huge amount of autonomy, real responsibility, and a culture that rewards initiative. It is fast-paced, varied, and genuinely stimulating, and no two days are ever the same. You get exposure to challenges and situations you would be unlikely to encounter elsewhere. The environment is highly collaborative, but people are also expected to make a clear individual contribution. There is also a level of flexibility and adaptability that is unusual for the sector. The firm has managed to retain its entrepreneurial roots through the recent growth period, which makes it a fun place to work.

It is not an environment for everyone. The pace is high, the pressure can be intense, and there is less structure than in a more traditional corporate setting, which can be unsettling for some. If you prefer clear hierarchy, defined processes, and a more predictable working style, this is not the right fit. At times it can feel a little chaotic, but its what makes it thrive.