Quality Manager Review

I am the Quality Manager for our UK's Sales Operations and Effectiveness team. My daily tasks include interacting with our UK sales teams and their various support structures to ensure smooth running of our internal sales systems. However I primarily create and streamline those systems to develop better MI reports for the senior sales teams as well as the business unit leaders. I use a combination of business analysis and Excel VBA skills to create these process and reports, forever striving for the one button click solution.

The skill I have acquired that I have utilised the most is Microsoft VBA. This was achieved through external training courses and time dedicated to developing these skills around the specific requirements of CGI. It has made me a main point of call for teams developing their own processes.

I honestly loved this programme and would not be in the career position I am without it. It has given me interpersonal skills as well as technical skills that have enabled me to not only progress but find my passion whilst doing so.

It has been a mixed bag at CGI in terms of appreciation, but I think that is the same everywhere. It is certainly not a reflection on CGI, that has put the processes in place for recognition, but instead the people that manage you that can wildly vary. At this current time I feel very appreciated by everyone I work for and with. Being given tasks I know are only given because I am valued.

The programme is always under review and improvement which is a part of it appeal. It is a great scheme that always understand it can do better and changes with the times and requirements of the organisation that fund it. Inductions are thorough and help you hit the ground running. the environment CGI SDP has cultivated for its SDP members is one of support and learning, truly invaluable.

I thought the university CGI had linked its programme too was ok, although I know that many students felt it could have been better. The lecturers are engaging and know their respective fields very well. It is hard to enjoy the full support of a facility when you are only there once a week and the distance is not a quick drive away.

The support I received from my employer has consistently been good. allowing me to thrive in an educational and work environment simultaneously. CGI had even created its own SDP library for its members to use.

Towards the beginning of my course the salary was not what I would have deemed enough to work and travel whilst still enjoying some kind of social life. However I am now aware that CGI have rectified this and increased the starting base salary to make it closer to an amount that can help a member thrive.

There are many charity activities and social groups you can become a part of through CGI. The sports and social club gives discounts from theatre tickets to classes and other trips. This is not secluded to one location hub either, CGI have very cleverly put this in the hands of those that live and work in the various office locations to give the members in those areas what they really want that is close to home.

Yes

I think that although it is very hard work and not everyone will succeed, those that do are on the fast track to a great career, with opportunities and experiences available for them at every turn. A degree and a job gives you the best of both worlds.

Be honest in the interview process (CGI want the right people, as only they will succeed. Ask lots of questions (CGI members have been where you are and are always very happy to take the time to explain things to you). Finally, give every opportunity a real go!(One opportunity that doesn't seem like it offers much can often be the path to much bigger and better things)