Rewarding mission, but challenging culture and leadership dynamicsThe good thingsWorking at Meli was a meaningful experience in many ways. The organisation has a strong community focus, delivering important services that make a real difference in people’s lives. Many of the frontline staff and managers are passionate, dedicated, and genuinely care about supporting families, children, and the wider community.
The challengesHowever, my experience was also marked by significant challenges. While Meli’s mission is admirable, the internal culture at times struggled to reflect those same values. Communication across leadership levels could be inconsistent, and there were occasions where decision-making felt reactive rather than strategic. I found it difficult to influence meaningful organisational change due to limited consultation and a lack of psychological safety in some teams, including my own.
Workload expectations were often high, with limited structural support, which made it difficult to maintain balance and long-term sustainability. There were also instances where staff felt undervalued or unheard, particularly when raising legitimate workplace concerns.
With stronger leadership alignment, particularly as the CEO settles into the role, clearer accountability, and more open internal communication, Meli has the potential to become a truly values-driven and supportive workplace.