Pros
Many of the people working in the Berlin office are really good professionals - they just know what they're doing. The atmosphere is OK but I wouldn't call it exciting. Much of the time it's too quiet for my taste. Style and tempo of work depend mostly on the team yet most of the time it's relaxed, overtime is neither enforced nor encouraged but leaving the office late happens every now and then. The office itself is nothing extraordinary, although it suffers from poor ventilation (especially during the summer). Location is convenient. The underground garage is overcrowded. Cafeteria is not too bad, prices are reasonable. Free warm beverages, fresh fruit twice a week. Occasional barbecues. Office equipment and hardware - no complaints (most of the people are asked what their preferences are prior to joining the company).
Cons
The company is very noticeably divided (and not only geographically) by the Atlantic. People are forming camps and trying to make themselves... important via... artificial means. Alongside the talented people, mentioned above, there are some completely clueless individuals. And the sad thing is they're not a rarity. And I very intentionally did not say "work here” as that would be... strongly inaccurate. Not to forget the ridiculous internal politics, hypocrisy and debilitating bureaucracy. It’s not unbearable if your skin is thick enough. You'll have a hard time if you are enthusiastic and career oriented. Opportunities are scarce, despite the number of open positions. It's not impossible but very difficult to progress. And keep in mind that ambition and desire for professional growth are hardly ever noticed. But if you wouldn’t mind a somewhat monotonous place to work, HERE could be the perfect fit for you!
