Long process, poor communication, and a fundamental gap between what this program claims to be and what it actually is.
Multiple rounds over several weeks, which is normal for a program like this. But new stages were added mid-process without explanation, and promised follow-ups consistently came late or only after I chased them. I was told in the final call that the decision had been made the very day of my last interview stage. It just wasn't communicated because they were "busy". Very telling for a candidate who had cleared 3 to 4 rounds of screening. I found out because I followed up tenaciously and saw they had reposted the job. Based on this and looking at other reviews of this company, I surely would have been ghosted if I hadn't been persistent.
The bigger issue is the disconnect between the pitch and the reality. The program sells itself on developing raw potential, investing in high-potential profiles, and shaping future leaders of the company. They even used the line "we develop talent internally" in the first call. When it actually came to making a decision, they chose the candidate who could be operational fastest. That's a legitimate business choice and would be understandable if it were not at odds with everything they sell you at the start of the process and how the program is advertised. If you're applying because you have a high-potential, entry-level (1-2 years of experience) profile and you're buying the leadership development story, temper your expectations. This also brings into question the value of their "structured program". Asking candidates to invest months in a rigorous selection process, then selecting on experience anyway, with unclear communication on compensation, make of that what you will.
The people I met seemed knowledgeable and engaged, if somewhat insincere. But clearly, the company needs to rethink what they actually mean by "LEADERSHIP" program.
I cannot comment on how they treat regular candidates, but I'm not willing to find out.