I reached out via an internal referral.

I had a 45-minute phone screen with the hiring manager. Then an on-site round, with six sections, some 45-minute and some 60-minute.

A couple of days later, I received positive feedback and a verbal commitment to an offer.

Next, they asked for reference checks. I provided them with three close colleagues: one manager, one stakeholder, and one team member. Everyone told me they gave me a strong endorsement.

After all this, they came back a week later and informed me of no offer.

The reason they gave (lack of "business acumen") was not in the job description, nor was it asked during the interview. So, it was basically a bait-and-switch.

Sure, it is their prerogative to withdraw an offer at will. Given the circumstances, it nevertheless leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.

I thought I had seen it all, but this place is something else: there is a facade, then there is a shady side. So be careful; it could happen to you too.

What should have been asked but never was: How good is your "business acumen"?