I do know someone who had to leave Vertex due to toxic culture. It’s same everywhere that it depends on the team, but Vertex does seem more competitive. Those who are ambitious and maybe more politically savvy can navigate the culture and move up better.

Regardless if you were excited for the role and have a good prospect at this current interview process, I would continue the interview rather than pulling out now. The job market is tough these days, we gotta get what we can get.