Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail

Hichem Hamou (29), joined Accenture five years ago and is currently an Enterprise Agility & Complex Delivery Manager within Technology Strategy & Advisory (TS&A). In his free time, he likes gardening and walking. “Every morning I take some fresh air. I go out for a walk and already think about the next steps I’ll be taking during the day. I like being prepared for whatever’s coming.”

Hichem, why do you love your job at Accenture?

You’ll get a typical consulting answer from me: I love my job because every day is different! That’s why we all choose to go into consulting. As a member of our Enterprise Agility and Operating Model group within TS&A, I typically do a wide variety of things, although it all boils down to one objective: helping our clients transform their way of working in a more agile way as part of their digital transformation. In my current project, Accenture is responsible for implementation and as a delivery lead, I need to make sure our delivery is as agile and lean as possible.

How do you bring about change in your job?

I help people to change the way they work and adopt a more agile mindset. One example is improving how business and IT interact. They shouldn’t be on opposite sides during a transformation; they need to work together. Another aspect of change is tooling. For example, replacing legacy systems and tools with future-proof systems and smart apps that allow a company to automate repetitive tasks using Robotic Process Automation, freeing up people to work in areas that are more interesting and add more value.

What are you really proud of?

I’m especially proud of the scope and impact we have as Accenture. When we advise our clients, the value of a project is not only measured in numbers or financial KPIs, but also in terms of satisfaction, retention, diversity, and sustainability.

Does changing things give you energy?

It’s the outcome of change that gives me energy: when our efforts are appreciated by clients. Although we always work together with our clients to deliver a project, it’s rewarding to be recognized for the contribution we make.

Why do you stay at Accenture?

Accenture wasn’t my first job. Before joining, I was looking for somewhere I could learn a lot. I remember being really impressed by the experience and knowledge of my new colleagues and it felt like the right place for me. Five years later, I’m still learning! Plus, I have the opportunity to drive my own initiatives, come up with ideas and make them happen. That’s also my motto: do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. And as I grow, I can also share my knowledge with my team and peers.

Are there any stressors?

Meeting some deadlines can be challenging. In French they say: ‘Par la porte ou par la fenêtre’ - it needs to happen and you need to find a solution. Those are stressful moments. At the same time, they make you feel alive and when you meet your deadline (which is always the case 😉) it is very rewarding.

Business is booming and the team needs extra colleagues. Who are you looking for?

First of all, everybody is welcome at Accenture! We love working together as a team, but you also need to be able to work independently. If you like talking and building relationships, if you are open to learning and have a flexible mindset, we’d love to meet you!

Learn more about our TS&A practice