Pros
Gained exposure to niche sectors within welding and orbital pipework. Opportunities to build long-term relationships with clients and international partners. Some autonomy in how work was delivered, particularly in commercial development.
Cons
Lack of transparency from leadership, particularly around funding and long-term strategy. Sudden withdrawal of support from key partners without communication or transition planning. My role was gradually diminished without consultation, leaving me effectively without function when redundancy was initiated. Promises about long-term employment security were made, then quietly walked back. No structured career development or leadership investment. Internal communication was poor, and people were often left to "figure things out" in a vacuum.
