Service Architect Review

Service Architect I currently work as a Service Architect for a government client. This is a very interesting role that involves ensuring that documentation and governance is in place before a project goes live, this ensures that service will be able to support the solution and therefore providing benefit to the customer. Daily I work creating documentation explaining different projects that will be implemented and how they will be supported. I also spend time speaking to different members of service to ensure that they are aware and happy with changes in the environment. It is great to see that the work being completed has an impact ensuring benefits to the customer and other members of the company.

I can not believe the amount of experience that I have gained with CGI since joining the company. The university modules give a solid foundation around interesting topics including: project management, client relations, cyber security, brand management and more. During the 3 years with the company I have identified a carrier pathway and attended training and have certificates including ITIL foundation and ITIL continual service improvement. The company is there for people that want to learn and succeed giving the opportunity for further training.

Personally I enjoy the work side of the sponsored degree program more than university. This is because I know that I learn by doing and can see real world benefit from the work I complete. However the university degree provides a full foundation in the way that IT business works and I have found it extremely beneficial.

I believe the company structure is setup to ensure recognition. Personally I have been recognised twice through the recognition scheme with financial rewards. My manager and projects that I work with always comment and make sure they say if I'm doing good work. During performance reviews you are giving a rating and this bases the pay increase you receive. Overall I feel valued by the company.

The structure of the SDP program has improved a lot since joining based on the feedback from members on the program. Overall this includes working four days a week and attending university one day. The company provides good support for the SDP program and the university is very open always allowing questions. CGI has a very flat management structure resulting in there always being someone you can talk to. As part of the program you have a line manager and carrier manager to help you through the programme.

The university is always open and supports a lot with the course. All tutors allow questions around the work and genuinely want everyone to succeed. I have enjoyed the SDP and believe that this has changed my personal and professional experience along with my understanding of the IT sector.

As part of the program you have a line manager and carrier manager to help you through the programme. My manager is completely supportive and has always offered any help that I need during the course. In the final year you are provided with 30 days dissertation leave to assist with the final project.

The SDP program has a good salary considering the cost of going to university. The company has share options whereby 3% of salary is matched if put into company shares - This is good way of saving. Costs of traveling for projects are expensed and you have the opportunity to stay away in hotels or work at a base location. Personally I commute and therefore work in lots of different locations around the UK.

Yes there are many different options outside of work including a sports and social club and other opportunities depending on the time of the year. Normally events will be based around projects and therefore you might go out for dinner with the people on the project or client. The company has a yearly meeting in different locations whereby progress of the company is discussed and this provides an opportunity for networking.

Yes

I think the company is providing a fantastic opportunity to set a foundation within IT. Personally I have referred a friend to CGI because of the relaxed and flexible working environment and company that will support and help you to progress to the position that you want to be in.

Ask as many questions as possible - Honestly the recruitment team are happy to talk on the phone or by email even before the assessment days. Do some research about the company before the interview process. If you are not sure you can talk to anyone within CGI and they will try and help or direct you to the correct person. The SDP provides a really good foundation and the interviews are not designed to trip anyone up so take your time.