February 2024
For Andrew Davern and Leigh Gorton, their return to CGI was willing and happy – a homecoming of sorts to a place that helped shape them into the skilled and driven leaders they are today.
Beginning his career as an analyst programmer, Andrew first joined CGI as a consultant in 2000. He remained with the company for 14 years, progressing through various roles, eventually landing the National Director, PMO & Support Function role.
After leaving the organisation, Andrew returned two years later as the Director of Consulting Services and reflects on his return: “I’m now in Brisbane and have been fortunate to work in cities like Singapore, Hong Kong and Johannesburg, as well as several Australian state capitals. What stands out most is the wonderful opportunities for team collaboration across several interesting projects.”
So why return to CGI?
“The projects are complex and I can remain current on the latest technologies here. I am empowered to advise customers and guide them towards beneficial change, and that is liberating and refreshing,” Andrew says.
“Several things inspired my return. I’m able to build a career here, backed by extensive training. There are no silos and I’ve loved collaborating with various teams at CGI over the years. I have found myself growing an internal network that I can leverage, time and time again. CGI truly exemplifies a team culture with spirit. If you’re looking for recognition, rewards and work-life balance, you’ll get that here.”
Fostering a culture of ownership
After university, Leigh joined Logica’s graduate program, and the company was later acquired by CGI. Working his way through several roles over the years, Leigh explored business analysis, solution architecture, project and program management and even bid management. Leaving CGI in 2015, Leigh returned to take on the role of Principal Consultant & Delivery Lead in 2021.
“What lured me back to CGI? That’s simple: a terrific organisation. CGI places employees at the forefront of their business strategy,” Leigh shares. “There’s such a strong focus on employee career growth and development, and frankly, how many organisations can honestly say they do that? I was particularly attracted to come back and help grow the business in Brisbane. The ownership mentality that is very much top-down driven is a drawcard, with a benefits and rewards package aligned with this. Take our Share Purchase Plan, for instance, this is just one example of how CGI demonstrates its commitment to a
rewarding work environment and the fact that staff are referred to as partners, speaks volumes.”
People are our distinctive difference. We value the wonderful, tight-knit crew we have built, and we put the team first.
Empowering our people
At CGI, we see our people as far more than employees. We invite every individual to be a company owner, to benefit from our collective success and to actively shape the future direction of the company.
“I’ve built collaborative client relationships here that have enabled me to form so many meaningful connections and build trust with clients, and thanks to the flexibility afforded, I can be adaptive and try new approaches,” Leigh explains. “Being away from CGI for a time perhaps was a positive: I returned even hungrier to make a difference. In such a rapidly changing industry, I can’t wait for the next challenge.”
“CGI has provided a platform for me to be part of a diverse, global team that drives significant change and improves lives. This has definitely aligned with my career aspirations,” Andrew adds.
If you’ve enjoyed reading about Andrew and Leigh’s experiences, visit our careers page to discover more about the CGI culture and explore available positions.
