"The experience has left me feeling humbled, inspired, motivated and re-energised.”

IBM

Innovative Investment in Top Talent

IBM believes in the value of investing in the development of its people. International development opportunities within IBM are numerous, but the company was interested in developing a stand out programme that not only challenged managers to expand their thinking in a totally new environment, but also gave something back to the communities in which they operate. Emerging World was chosen as their delivery partner.

The programme incorporated a competitive selection process and connected participants with specific assignment opportunities that were matched to their unique skills, development needs and personalities. The four-week assignments have been undertaken across a diverse range of organizations, including eye care, disability, sustainable livelihoods and education.

The work undertaken between IBM and the Aravind eye hospital in India has been recognised as best practice in a case study in the periodical, Strategic HR Review.

By enhancing participants’ cultural understanding and building their expertise in emerging markets, IBM has boosted their ability to function as a globally integrated enterprise.

What’s more, as a direct result of the programme, a number of partners have now been linked to the IBM On-demand community. This initiative exists to leverage further support for partner organizations using IBM’s extensive resource within India.

“You learn a lot – because you have to. It’s not all laid out for you,” explains Mandy Bunce, Executive Sponsor, IBM Top Talent Programme. “The thing that interests me about Emerging World is that it takes you out of your comfort zone, so it’s a great way to educate people on ‘worldwide’ business.”