A Swiss artificial intelligence startup is defending its recruitment practices after a job posting demanding up to 100-hour workweeks sparked widespread criticism. Forgis, based in Switzerland, openly stated in a now-closed linkedin advertisement that it “does not believe in work-life balance” while seeking a “product growth associate.” Despite the controversial terms and a salary slightly below the national median,the position reportedly attracted over 1,200 applicants in just three days,raising questions about work expectations in the competitive tech industry.
A Swiss startup is facing backlash over a job posting advertising potential workweeks of up to 100 hours.
Forgis, a Swiss artificial intelligence company, included the statement “We do not believe in work-life balance” in a LinkedIn job advertisement for a “product growth associate” position. The posting, which has drawn significant criticism, details expectations of 80 to 100 hours of work per week – equivalent to 11 to 14 hour workdays with limited days off, though the company states “a few Sundays off” may be granted.
“We Don’t Force Anyone to Apply”
The position offers an annual salary of 70,000 Swiss francs (approximately $75,000 USD), which is slightly below the Swiss median salary of around 78,000 Swiss francs per year. However, the role also includes a 1% equity stake in the company. Forgis is seeking candidates with a master’s degree in science from a top university, such as ETH Zurich, Munich, Oxford, or Cambridge.
Forgis CEO Federico Martelli defended the terms of the advertisement in an interview with Blick, stating, “That’s life in a startup, Silicon Valley style. If someone doesn’t want that, we don’t force anyone to apply.” The job posting was closed on Friday, November 22nd, not due to the controversy, but because the company had already begun its recruitment process. More than 1,200 people applied for the position within three days of its release.
published November 23rd at 10:55 AM, Arnaud Enjourbault, 6Medias
