Fake, Distrustful - Team Lead Zoox Employee Review

My career progression and overall experience changed drastically once my reporting structure shifted in April 2025. After nearly seven years at Zoox, during which I consistently felt aligned with the mission, the culture, and the values, things began to decline when it became clear that parts of the operations organization were functioning more like a popularity hierarchy than a merit-based environment. When my new manager stepped into the role, I struggled to find stability, guidance, or support. I had experienced five different managers prior, so consistency was something I was hoping for. Instead, I felt the opposite. • 1:1s were frequently rescheduled at the last minute, often while I was already waiting in the Zoom room. • When I asked for direction, clarity, or feedback that would help me grow, the answer was repeatedly “Let me get back to you,” without meaningful follow-up. • I received critiques about the quality of my work but rarely received actionable guidance or recommendations to help me improve. • Interactions often felt dismissive or condescending, which made it difficult to trust the feedback or feel psychologically safe. • The dynamic created an environment where I did not feel supported, championed, or protected as a long-tenured employee who had previously thrived under multiple other leaders. What made this particularly disappointing is that this leader had previously been known for authenticity and genuine care. Over time, that seemed to shift toward a more hierarchical, status-driven leadership style. The broader perception among many employees with this manager was that once you fell out of favor, it was difficult, if not impossible, to regain trust or support. After a year under this management structure, it became clear that the environment was no longer one where I could grow, feel valued, or do my best work.