Great Place —If You’re a Favorite, Not if You’re Capable - Associate Ares Management Employee Review

1.0
5 Jul 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Local team leads act like modern-day serfs, quick to say “yes” to whatever their overseas managers demand no matter how unreasonable, humiliating, or pointless. The culture fosters extreme insecurity and low self-esteem among local leadership, who in turn stifle initiative and critical thinking from the team.If you’re looking for real professional development, meaningful challenges, or a merit-based culture, look elsewhere.

Cons

A culture built on sycophancy, not substance. Those proudly calling themselves “valued” are, in reality, stuck in mindless data entry, CRM hygiene, and low-level reporting that adds no meaningful value. Many are now effectively unemployable elsewhere, sustained only by their relentless nose-rubbing and yes-man routine — which they mistake for professional worth.Senior associates and VPs here often function as glorified personal assistants to London analysts, rather than trusted partners. The atmosphere breeds petty megalomania at the top and learned helplessness everywhere else. If you value genuine responsibility, skill development, or self-respect, this isn’t the place for you.

Explore other reviews about Ares Management

5.0
11 May 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Very collaborative culture with a strong connected leadership team; a high-growth organization that provides great opportunities for performing team members - many examples of strong mobility (employees growing through promotion as well as employees moving locations and teams). I have been with the firm for more than 5 years and it has been a completely positive experience - I've grown significantly in responsibility and compensation.

Cons

Nothing that comes to mind.

2.0
4 Jun 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Strong Brand Reputation: The company's industry-leading brand recognition significantly enhances employee career prospects.

Cons

Challenging Organizational Culture: A high-stress organizational culture negatively impacts team morale and overall productivity. Overly Hierarchical Structure and Conflicting Priorities: A top-heavy hierarchy creates conflicting leadership guidance, leading to project ambiguity and misaligned priorities. Uncompetitive Total Compensation: Below-market compensation packages drive consistent attrition and hinder the recruitment of top-tier talent.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All