All UK divisions are controlled by a v powerful HRD - beware and do not cross her!! - Department Head Danone Employee Review

1.0
Aug 2, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I used to think the values and purpose were great, but they are actually just a cynical marketing message, and maximising profit drives everything Opportunities to work with some well known brands, advise potential employees to get the experience and get out, there is no loyalty for anyone but self at Danone

Cons

Expectation for people to effectively work 2 + jobs for the salary of 1 GMs are weak and only driven by achieving their own numbers to achieve their massive personal bonuses Pumping billions of plastic water bottles, yogurt pots into the environment but refusing to contribute their financial fair share to create better U.K. and global systems Senior people have too much power to use the company’s money to drive their own personal agendas - not enough checks and balances in place Very little concern for the mental health of Danone employees. Again - great marketing messages and a huge internal industry to get employer recognition but the money spent on awards would be better spent on genuinely delivering quality services and support their people Some of the U.K. directors have too much power and the executive board in Paris seem oblivious to this, yet ask any senior person in the U.K. behind closed doors and the majority will agree

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Danone Response
6y
We are very sad to read your feedback. We work everyday to make our vision "One Planet. One health" and our Mission "Bringing health through food to as many people as possible" a reality. I am sorry you did not experience Danone in this way.

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5.0
Apr 30, 2026
Anonymous intern
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great people, highly structured, unique learning opportunities

Cons

Team was fully remote so sometimes a bit difficult to communicate with everyone

1.0
Feb 3, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Work-life balance exists and is generally respected. Bonuses can be good, depending on the year and leadership priorities. Strong, reputable brands that look impressive on a résumé. "Some" genuinely great people who work hard despite the environment.

Cons

No meritocracy whatsoever. Promotions and career growth are driven by favoritism, internal alliances, and visibility politics rather than performance or results. Advancement often feels like a popularity contest. “Core values” are largely performative. They are referenced often but ignored when inconvenient, especially at leadership levels. Questionable long-term strategy. Direction changes frequently, priorities shift without explanation, and long-term planning feels weak or reactive. Extremely bureaucratic. Simple decisions require excessive approvals, slowing execution and stifling innovation. Politics over performance. Success depends more on who you align with than what you deliver. If you're not "one of them" or if they don't want to continue paying you your value, they'll find ways to get rid of you. So choose wisely and research the role and team.

5
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