Old china hand is accurate with his description of rostering and crew control.
No sign of it getting any better yet and the company are still unwilling to discuss any sort of rostering agreement.
No pay rise for over 5 years (unless you count the insulting 2% imposed 2 years ago). Constant attempts to modify COS. Inefficient rostering. Punitive rostering. Crew Control, out of control. Woefully inadequate management.
Not to forget there is an IFALPA recruitment ban in place for the 747-400 due to a contractual dispute. More details on fragrant harbour forum.
If you are thinking of applying then know exactly what you are getting into, there are better options elsewhere for new joiners.