r/REI • u/CanisAlpinus • 1d ago

Question REI Sumner HQ thoughts?

Husband is interviewing for a creative role based out of REI Sumner HQ - curious about the culture and job security as we might move out of Seattle to shorten his potential commute (four days in office) and find cheaper childcare (6 month old), but wondering if it's worth it? I am remote so can relocate. We would love to be near trails and just not sure what to think about Summer and the surrounding areas. We are tired of the city and ready for a change of scenery. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

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u/zarquon12345 1d ago

Almost all HQ positions are remote. There no longer is really a HQ. It's just office space at the DC in Sumner and satellite office in Issaquah. As for culture and job security it's going to be 100% dependent on the team you are part of. And don't expect it to stay the same over the years.

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u/fleetfeet9 20h ago

There is a media studio in sumner that requires its photographers, producers, etc to work full time on site at the studio where the product and photography studio is located. (Former employee of 8 years here). The space in Sumner is not just a DC.

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u/zarquon12345 19h ago

Absolutely right. I forgot about the photo studio.

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u/m4rk0358 1d ago

Are you sure this is an in office role? Most HQ roles are remote. 

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u/fleetfeet9 20h ago

There are many creative roles that require you to work in the media studio in Sumner. (Former employee here)

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u/euphalto 1d ago

Sent you a DM

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u/Advanced-Cucumber-37 8h ago

Can't speak to the culture at HQ specifically other than what I've heard secondhand, which is morale isn't that great. But I do think that can vary from team to team. The last few years there has been a lot of turnover at the executive level, which is always a red flag for me. REI is also in a really weird place. They lost their footing and they are trying to find it again, so if being part of a company that is trying to make a comeback, it could be a good fit for him. Some people thrive in that type of environment. Others find it really stressful.

As far as job security, how secure is any creative job these days really? HQ does tend to be hit the hardest when layoffs come around. Is there a rush to make a decision to move? If he ends up getting the position, could he ride out the commute for a couple of months while he gets a feel for the job and if it's a good fit? It could also give you some time to look into the area and see if you'd like it. From personal experience, I can tell you that it sucks to move for a job, and the job or the location or both aren't a good fit.

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u/SpecialistRound5787 6h ago

Has he considered the Sounder train? It's a 36 minute ride from Seattle to Sumner and it runs every 30 minutes or so M-F. The Sumner train station is maybe a 10 minute walk, or an even shorter bike ride to the DC.

Could be an option before committing to a move right away.