Pros
Old Solvay, before the Rhodia acquisition was a conservative but stable company dominated by a Euro-centric policy. Compensation was average to above average, but opportunities were non-existent for Americans. The new Solvay is much more fast paced. The are many more opportunities for advancement as lots of people are leaving the company.
Kontras
New Solvay is still very Euro or Franco centric with most mid and upper management opportunities given to ex pats from overseas. Salary targets are now 50% of midpoint in industry, down from 80%. This will slowly lead to a lower quality team. Merger of Solvay and Rhodia has taken the worst from each group, rather than the best. Focus is entirely focused on financials, rather the the business as a whole.