Pros
The mission of Silicon Valley is terrific -- to support Tech/Life science entrepreneurs. Inside Silicon Valley this works well as the bank has a stellar reputation but is problematic outside the Northern CA region. Senior management on the life science team is excellent and visionary, less so on the tech side particularly outside the Silicon Valley region. The training program for new recent college graduate hires is superb.
Cons
Silicon Valley Bank has lost its way to support technology entrepreneurs as it seeks today to only fund those with VC backing who are already successful. Work environment is highly competitive, territorial and backbiting despite its newly defined mission to be United. Expectation to work 24/7 and lack of teamwork along with poor management that lack vision, integrity and raw intelligence lead to a stressful, hypocritical culture. Turnover remains high with new hires given lack of promotion opportunities and inbred management that seek to protect their backs and cronies.