Frustrating if you want to move up, coupled with a blame culture that's quick to point the finger and slow to praise - Anonymous employee Lonza Employee Review

1.0
9 Feb 2010
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Some very talented people who are generous with training and sharing knowledge

Cons

There are two major areas (as a minimum) that Lonza need to address in order to be seen as an employer worth considering. Firstly there is the extremely poor benefits package that is offered, years can go by without a bonus and salary reviews are subject to company performance. Therefore, although you may have had an excellent appraisal, you are not guaranteed a pay increase. Lonza frequently promote staff without offering a pay increase- more responsibility with only a change in job title/description to show for it. There is also an ingrained culture of overtime "I don't care how long it takes as long as it gets done" is the general sentiment with a significant number of staff (it seems) staying late most days to complete work. Secondly (and I guess this ties in with the above) is the lack of progression, there are a number of talented, hardworking members of staff who are languishing in the same roles that they seem to have been doing for years.

Explore other reviews about Lonza

5.0
8 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Diverse opportunities across departments as one wanted

Cons

Provide decent pay and benefits

4.0
14 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Lots to learn about producing API's via fermentation in bioreactors. Lots of room for career growth towards other departments and positions, from the business to the research. Good pay and lots of benefits are offered, such as dental, vision, and medical insurance; they also have a weight-loss program that I'm taking advantage of. Quality is prioritized, so there is no pressure to learn quickly, work faster, or meet quotas to do a good job. Teams are reliable, especially when learning the ropes; they'd be a part of the job I'd miss most if I leave.

Cons

Take careful consideration and be transparent with the supervisors if you're still exploring, as it's not an entry-level job that can hire and train new people at a fast pace all the time (I'm comparing this to retail and fast-food places, though). I live an hour away and work night shift, 7 pm to 7 am, thus the total amount of hours away from home is 14 hours. Please consider your mental endurance as well as your physical endurance for the night shift, as this job requires you to be on your feet, think critically, and can challenge one's work-home life balance.

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