Pros
At this stage, very little remains; however, I had the privilege of working alongside some exceptional individuals, forming connections that may well last a lifetime. The office environment was well thought out, with a high standard of equipment and facilities that supported productivity. The overarching vision to develop an ethical, Shariah-compliant home finance product was both commendable and inspiring.
Cons
Where to begin… When I first joined the company, it was an energetic and inspiring environment. Staff appeared united in their commitment to the company’s vision, with a clear sense of passion and shared purpose. The office culture was vibrant, and there was a noticeable level of organisation that supported a positive working atmosphere. However, from around mid 2024, there was a marked and rapid decline. Certain hires introduced during this period contributed to a toxic working environment, particularly at the management level. Unfortunately, these individuals remain with the company, and it’s evident the executive team fail to fully recognise the negative impact they have had. Reports suggest these individuals are being paid generously, while broader staff compensation such as pay increases or performance related bonuses has remained stagnant, despite the company’s growth during that time. Currently, the atmosphere within the company has become increasingly subdued, and morale continues to decline. There are also growing concerns regarding leadership. Raza, the CEO, has made a series of questionable strategic decisions that reflect a lack of experience. It is unclear whether the business has reached break even, and there is a perception that it is being sustained by successive funding rounds rather than sustainable revenue, raising questions about the stewardship of investor capital. Furthermore, the CEO projected highly ambitious growth expectations that, in hindsight, were evidently unrealistic and ultimately unachievable. This pattern highlights the urgent need for more seasoned leadership to guide the company forward with clarity, accountability, and sound judgment. The co-founder appears to have lost his way, he was revered highly by the staff.