I started at my current company just two months ago. I'm a manager responsible for leading the whole functional area in a big market (let's say the whole Finance in China).
I'm reporting to, let's call him, Bob, who's responsible for the functional area at the international level.
I've had several meetings with Bob and asked plenty of questions about his vision and plans for the area.
However, it now becomes clear that Bob leads a "divide and conquer" tactic, not sharing information, even if asked about something directly. There were several topics that had big consequences for our team, about which I learnt from third parties, not directly from Bob. I also got some comments from people that Bob doesn't like sharing information.
The information I received from other people wasn't complete - they told me they didn't know more. However, they also asked me not to tell Bob that I know anything about what they mentioned to me since they are worried that he won't share info with them as a result. This was important information about projects he plans for my market or the headcount.
Given that just changing the job is not an option, what is the best way to handle this? My goal is to have as much information as possible to be able to work normally.
P.S. Our relationship is good, my first ideas were also well-received, so I don't think it's about me or him not liking me.
they also asked me not to tell Bob that I know anything about [it]
- This is the kind of nonsense that tears teams apart. You should actively work to put a stop to this behavior. Find out why. Push back on Bob for permitting it.