Pros
Inclusive atmosphere: internal staff make an effort to get involved with academy and trainees (eg. attending presentations, assisting with training/interview practise etc.)
Excellent client base: high profile client list (listed on website), long-standing relationships managed by dedicated account managers who work so hard. It is very difficult to get your foot in the door with these clients on the back of a 2:2 or unrelated degree - FDM provides that opportunity.
Diversity: numerous awards for diversity and dedicated Women in IT, Ex-forces and Back to Business programmes to work with people from all backgrounds. This has no relation to promotion opportunities at all.
Clarity: FDM is upfront about the basic requirements for all programmes in the initial stages, including during assessment days i.e. 2yr commitment, unpaid initial training, geographical flexibility. If you knowingly sign up to these at the beginning, it seems unfair to complain about it once you're in.
Cons
Occasionally, internal processes do slow things down and there can be a very London-centric approach to this.
Lack of understanding of internal team from consultants. Its very disheartening to read reviews about internal team from people that show a lack of understanding of the internal roles in the wider business and their compensation package.