[frostmatthew]

> My boss already knows how Jerry acts and hasn't done anything.

If your boss knows how Jerry treats you (and that you're uncomfortable/unhappy about it) and he's unwilling to do anything about it you might want to consider talking to your boss's boss. If neither is concerned with how Jerry treats his co-workers it might be time to update the resume.

[throwaway1980s]

  If neither is concerned with how Jerry treats his co-workers it might be time to update the resume.

Both are aware, and I've already spoken with them about it.

The response was, from my boss, that nothing can be done as if he leaves, it would set the, now struggling, company back months at least, and from my boss's boss (company is small, so they are both C level), that the problem will go away with the reduction of stress once there is eventually someone hired to help with Jerry's responsibilities.

I do not disagree with my boss, Jerry's position is critical and he's already doing the work meant for three. However, we've been hiring for that position for 8 months now, and we've had a net loss of employees there of 2. I also don't feel that an additional employee or more would solve the problem, as the position will always require some level of stress on Jerry.

You're right in that I should prepare for a job change, and I've already started, I'm just hoping there's something I can do or try, since it used to be an amazing company to work for, and with the exception of this major issue, otherwise still is.

[mode0]

I'm reminded of the statement from the Netflix culture slides circulating around the net (paraphrasing): a company's culture is evident in who gets promotions and praise, not what is in a values statement.

Your management is willing to ignore childish behavior because it helps their bottom line. The path is clear - decide if you want to work in an organization that exhibits those values. If not, move on.

[001sky]

If <two> c-level execs are fully aware of this and making excuses for it, you're facing a serious problem. They are either scared (ie, not confident) that their own positions are at stake (ie, BOD will fire them), or they are displaying their true selves in a way which is unflattering (to say the least). I agree with mode0, you have to make a decision and develop a strategy in light of that.

[throwaway1980s]

That's a very excellent point, thank you, I will heed that advice.