CDC Blog: The ASE & Me

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The ASE & Me

Posted At : February 6, 2009 1:08 AM | Posted By : Nicholas Ashford

One of Capgemini’s unique selling points that differentiates itself from the competition is the ASE. Which is an acronym and doesn’t give much away. What it stands for is Accelerated Solutions Environment. The clue is in the title. In a nutshell, the ASE is about solving complex problems and driving out critical decisions from the very top of organisations.

I’m about a year into the Capgemini graduate scheme (CDC) I have spent the last four months on secondment in the ASE. Everyone has a unique journey through the CDC. My time in the ASE can certainly been a very different experience to any other type of consulting you can imagine - think movable walls, world class facilitators, the latest in audio-visual and technical equipment for starters – each event is both unique and bespoke, tailored exactly to the clients needs. Having worked with over 1 in 3 of FTSE 100 companies for the last 15 years, the ASE has consistently proven itself to be at the very top of the game.

So what has that meant for me? I have spent time working with the highest level management of both public and private companies whilst being coached by some of Capgemini’s most senior and talented people. The level of exposure to some of the country’s top CEOs is astounding and the training you receive in facilitation is second to none.

Hours are up and down, you could find yourself working 9am-5pm, working from home or working 6am-1am, but the payout is huge. When you solve a problem that a client has been wrestling with for 6 months in 3 days and their gratitude is proportionate, you get a buzz that lasts for days.

A unique place, with unique opportunities, what I have learnt is how to get the very best out of people in a very short space of time. And that has to be a good thing.