There’s been a lot of frustration across teams lately — and rightfully so. The biggest problem isn’t talent or capability; it’s culture. Somewhere along the way, Pepsi’s open, collaborative spirit got replaced by a fear-driven, top-down approach.
Too many leaders now operate with a “yes-boss” hierarchy mindset ( Santosh , mamta for eg), where questioning decisions is seen as disloyal instead of constructive. That’s created silos, favoritism, and a lack of accountability. People who actually do the work often stay quiet because the loudest voices hold the power.
It’s not about one region or one team — it’s a mindset issue. Leadership by intimidation never sustains results; it just silences good people.
Still, there are leaders holding the place together:
• Dave continues to drive performance and push for accountability.
• Stephanie remains fair, transparent, and grounded.
• Shyam brings logic and calm.
• Magesh, who built Accelerate S&T for I & O and rebuilt the D&A from what was a fragmented setup, keeps driving structure and stability — though the credit doesn’t always reach him. Santosh took the I & O credit.
Pepsi has the right foundation, but it needs to get back to leadership built on respect, collaboration, and courage — not hierarchy and fear. That’s the real reset we need.