An area to improve will be - providing candidates honest feedback if they invest time and effort during the interview process. Sending the usual templated email makes you no different from the not so great companies to work for. I also want to add that it is disrespectful to the candidate if a VP book themselves to join an interview and not show up and no one knows where they are. I would encourage the executive team and HR team to work together in improving the hiring process. It might be a great place to work but not a great experience during interviews. Integrity is also an important organizational value, especially higher up. The hiring manager said she enjoyed the conversation and as next steps she will forward me to someone above her for a 3rd round. She could have said I will provide my feedback to HR and they will get back to you. There is no need to set a false expectation.