I am considering leaving IBM GBS and joining Accenture (Interviewing in process) - I've joined IBM six years ago, my first job after graduating college. At Accenture I'd be aligning with SAP / Financial Services Operating Group on the consulting side, coming in as an experienced manager. The primary reason for leaving stems from what I perceive as IBM's lack of stability or strategic vision, I feel Accenture has no problems in that area.
What are your thoughts? Any pearls of wisdom?
Of course you will be better off, IBM is an F22 heading into a brick wall right now.
Try Fujitsu.
Seven years ago, I went the other direction, Accenture to IBM. Gone from both now. If you have SAP experience, Manager level is good place to start with your six years in GBS. If you don't, make sure you get product training. Without SAP experience, senior managers and partners won't staff you on SAP projects and existing projects won't take you on since they won't want to cover your costs. If you already have SAP experience, then plan to spend 60-70% of your time managing consultants, analysts, client, and upwards, and 30-40% of your time consulting. Not a criticism, just be aware of Accenture expectations.
Never worked for them, but heard their pay and benefits are usually better.
CSC def pays more on average
I moved from IBM to CGI and am happier here.
Accenture is a nightmare. I just came from there, layoffs and age discrimination are rampant too. They create artificial growth through acquisitions which are poorly integrated. That being said their marketing machine is genius. Inside they are crumbling. Just like PwC- know from close friends that PwC have been really struggling for the past 3 years.
For a stable job go to work for one of your clients or an Indian pure play. They are building up onshore presence. But don’t expect stability at Accenture by any means. SAP is strategic for IBM too so look on the bright side in terms of your stability.
But if you’re that unhappy, then better off leaving than bringing a bad attitude to teams. Clients know when you are unhappy and we can’t afford to lose any from bad attitudes right now.