Graduates' Profiles

Yasmine Charafeddine

Discipline Outsourcing

Why did you apply to Capgemini

I wanted a career through which I would be challenged and given responsibility from the outset, coupled with the chance to work with talented, motivated and fun colleagues. Outsourcing is increasingly critical to the success of businesses. Capgemini’s high profile clients reflect its position at the forefront of this industry and indisputably make it a great place to learn. Working on the Metropolitan Police account has provided the rewarding opportunity of improving a key public service, whilst the complexity and scale of the account help fulfil my career aspirations.

What is your favourite aspect about Capgemini?

Due to its size Capgemini can offer a wide range of experiences and roles. Working within Commercial Finance enables me to use my legal background whilst being supported through the CIMA qualification. I am also intrigued by the challenge of solving business issues and finding innovative ways to mitigate risk. ‘Fun’ is one of Capgemini’s values. Having attended many events, I feel adequately qualified in saying that great importance is placed on this. Fun is also reflected in Capgemini’s support of charitable projects, such as sailing against the Metropolitan Police and ‘The Really Wild Challenge’, involving trekking, biking and kayaking.

Why would you recommend Capgemini as a graduate employer?

Through the Graduate Academy and within your individual department there are recommended courses and qualifications to undertake through e-learning and both internal and external training (for example at ‘Les Fontaines’, Capgemini’s University). However, Capgemini also encourages you to be pro-active by setting your own priorities for development. Capgemini focuses on providing a high level of service to clients by working closely with them. Collaboration with both colleagues and clients are essential to the success of any business. Thinking globally is ever more important in today’s market. This is realised when working for a large multinational company like Capgemini.

What is the best thing you have learned during your time at Capgemini?

As with all graduates there comes a point when you move from ‘unconscious incompetence’ (ready and rearing to take on the world) to ‘conscious incompetence’ (realising that you still have a lot to learn). This is a pretty daunting experience, and when it happened to me, I realised how grateful I was to learn from and be supported by such a talented team. Working on a long term project has meant that I have been able to develop strong relationships with the Capgemini team and also the Metropolitan Police.

What is the best part about your graduate scheme?

I wish I could write something else, but it really is the other graduates as we have such a great time together. Also, because graduates are placed within different areas of outsourcing, we learn so much from one another. This network will prove invaluable as we move forward within our careers. I also have to give credit to the Outsourcing Graduate Academy for providing such a comprehensive and exciting programme from presentation skills to business and community projects. Moreover, the extensive support network means advice is always at hand and I have found everyone to be approachable and keen to help.