Bavo Cumps
Young Professional
When and how did you join Capgemini?
"After getting my degree of Civil Engineer in Computer Sciences I decided to join Capgemini because
after my first interview I immediately felt at home. The spirit of teamwork both with colleagues and
clients - which is so central here - was right up my street. I also felt this was a company that
would provide ample opportunity for personal development. Since September 2006 I have worked on 3
different projects for the same customer using Microsoft technologies such as .NET-framework, MS
SQL Server, MS SQL Reporting Services and MS Biztalk. Two of these projects were maintenance projects
where the team worked on Capgemini premises out of its Advanced Development Centre which allowed me to
get familiar with all of the facets of the company. I was in charge of bugfixing and the analysis and
development of Change Requests. For a third project I worked on the client's premises to build a
reporting system for the finance department as an extension to the new application I worked on in the
first project. I was responsible for analysis, development, testing and planning. In my current project
I have the opportunity to acquire more analysis skills and that's where I want to evolve towards next."
Is it difficult to find your way in a big company when you're fresh out of university?
"Not really, the culture here is so open and friendly, with everybody helping each other. Everybody at
Capgemini has a counselor who helps them to plan their career. As a Young Professional I got even more
support during the first 6 months. A dedicated people manager helps you find your way within the company
and helps you decide on the first learning opportunities. The colleagues on my first project were also
very helpful and immediately made me feel accepted. I enjoy the networking with my fellow young professionals.
We have regular meetings and activities where we can exchange experiences."
Can you tell us a bit more about those first learning opportunities?
"Capgemini offers a whole range of learning opportunities: from web-based trainings to classroom trainings
spread over several days. I had the opportunity to take classes in Microsoft .NET Framework, testing and RUP.
For the near future I have scheduled courses around analysis as well as French language courses. I also feel
that the different peer-to-peer communities set up within Capgemini around different subjects and technologies
are a great way to learn more."
What about the work-life balance?
"Since I joined Capgemini I have not had the impression that I didn't have enough time for my personal life.
Of course certain key moments on the project when you're working towards a deadline can be a bit more time
challenging, but I have always been able to compensate during calmer periods. I can still spend a lot of
time with my friends from university."
Any advice to other young people?
"If you're interested in technology, enjoy team work as well as personal initiative, this is a great company
to discover yourself and to develop your competencies."