Cisco

Reasonable pay, comfortable, stable, somewhat flexible work times, good benefits. A later work time start and standard 20 days PTO are also included.

Few top-down directives; teams are instead largely independent, which leads to teams fighting internally to achieve their own objectives rather than for the benefit of Cisco.

Heavily political.

(Pre-pandemic) Officially, working from home is allowed. Unofficially, working from home is generally frowned upon; you need to be in the office unless sick or have an important errand.

Officially, switching jobs within the company is allowed and encouraged. Unofficially, managers get really petty when this happens and usually drop your bonus to the minimum.

Technology and tools are generally behind the curve. Huge legacy issues prevent investment in reworking.

Advancement and pay raises are usually very limited, however not for a lack of desire by direct managers.

Company culture is pretty bland; team cultures vary.

No dedicated sick time.

Invest in long-term improvements, not just short-term goals.

Without better incentives to stay, top engineers will always move away.

More engineer/director engagement; they are too disconnected.

It's all work and no play. Encourage more fun activities and team building.