January 2017. Process started by applying via LinkedIn for position. Shortly after received an email to answer pre-phone screen questions per my inquiry into the position.
Approx 2 weeks later --After I passed the written pre-phone screen questionnaire, got invited to a phone screen.. The Company called wrong phone number even though the correct phone number had been supplied. The phone interview had to be rescheduled for several days later.
4 weeks later (Late February)--heard back that I made it to the next step and will now speak via phone with another member of the Executive team. Interview originally scheduled for 10 AM. The Company kept postponing due to other emergency meetings--finally called at 4:30 PM
2 weeks later (Middle of March) -- Received an email to schedule an onsite interview.
3 weeks later (early April)--onsite interview scheduled at Corporate Headquarters in Princeton. Two (2) of the 5-person interview panelists were no shows as the Company failed to confirm Personal Time Off (PTO) or vacation. As a result these interviews were now to be scheduled at a later date via phone.
2 weeks later (late April) phone interview with missing panelists finally scheduled (one for Monday from 3:30 PM to 4:40 PM and the other for Thursday from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM)
The Monday interview, the Company called the correct number but at 3:00 PM not 3:30 PM as scheduled (another poor communication issue)--had to reschedule to original time 3:30 PM.
The Thursday interview, the Company called at the correct time 3:30 PM but called the wrong number (home number rather than the cell number that had been clearly communicated) multiple times--another poor communication)
Finally in late May (over 4 1/2 months after initial contact) received the flush email " Although your qualifications are impressive, thanks for applying, have a nice day.
Ironically, one of the main requirements of this job as outlined in the job description is to Hire and Retain top talent. In today's world where decision making, organization and planning, customer focus and building collaborative relationships are an absolute must to survive, Firmenich's hiring and selection process is laughable and deserves a big fat F.
If the interview process is indicative of how decisions are made, you may want to think twice before applying.
