IBM – “IBM UK LTD - Global Business Services”

Pros

Flexible working culture fully supported. The business has no problems with you working from home. Diverse culture and great opportunities if you are willing to follow the process and check all the boxes. If you are willing to manage your own career proactively you can progress through the ranks.

Cons

Aggressive culture which doesn't always support individuals. Travel is expected using very 'tight' expense allowances - economy airfare regardless of the length of flight. Process driven for everything which means that you spend hours resolving simple tasks rather than client facing work. Not very good at supporting team events - all self funded and seldom happen. I met my team socially once in 2 years!

Advice to Senior Management

When I joined IBM I was told by a colleague that I was just a number now....I didn't believe them! In hindsight, they were actually right. I am a loyal committed member of staff but in recent months have realised that I am just a number and that the bottom line is the most important thing. I always believed that if you had good staff and looked after them you had a good business. IBM is not looking after its dedicated and hardworking staff. They need to think long and hard about the actions they are taking....the bottom line isn't everything.