Meet Varghese, our dedicated PMO manager in India, where he plays a crucial role in overseeing and driving multiple projects to success. From supporting various teams to standardizing processes, Varghese has worn many hats and excelled in each role. Let’s delve into his inspiring journey and learn more about his contributions and experiences at GDT.
How long have you been with GDT and what does your role entail?
Varghese: I have been with GDT for 2.6 years, and I currently manage the Professional Services PMO team in India.
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming an account manager?
Varghese: When I joined GDT way back in March 2022, India Operations had just started. Everything here was new, as the leadership team was in the process of setting up things from scratch. I was happy to be part of this journey from the beginning. A Covid wave was just settling down, so we could move around, including going to the office. The leadership here was exceptional, as I could talk to them and meet them just like another colleague of mine, unlike other companies.
I had multiple roles in the beginning, starting with supporting the Finance team with reporting, the Staging team with creating Staging IDs, and assisting the Time & Effort (T&E) Project team with their projects. Six months down the line, I was assigned to the T&E Project team. I worked with Wendy Smith (my current role model) as part of this project team who helped a lot in changing the way these projects were driven in GDT. Together, we helped standardize the process and get it on track. Today, T&E processes are much better when compared to what they were in 2022. A lot of improvisation was done to get the T&E process where it is today, and I thanks Wendy for all her help.
It’s been a great 2.6 years with GDT. I am learning every day from my work, team, and leadership. I grabbed every opportunity that came my way with both hands, including supporting other teams within GDT, and to take on the responsibility of driving the Employee Engagement Team for GDT India.
Can you describe your team and its dynamics?
Varghese: We are a team of seven enthusiastic, talented, and self-motivated project coordinators and project managers. We drive multiple projects within the team. Most of the projects are for Time & Effort (T&E) projects where we have close to 100 active projects driven by our two Project Coordinators. We have one project coordinator driving the TMO EOS project by creating the Staging IDs. We then have three project managers driving TMO and internal projects for GDT. I am proud to lead this team as a manager.
Can you share a past or current project or accomplishment that you’re particularly proud?
Varghese: When I was assigned the Time & Effort (T&E) projects way back in October 2022, it was not in great shape, especially the process followed in driving these types of projects. I did my best in learning the current as is process, and then with help of Wendy Smith, improved the process both communication and quality wise. With this, we were able to standardize the T&E process. Today, we are in the process of driving the Quality Management System for the T&E process with the help of GDT Quality team.
Our Core Value of September is “We Promote Transparency.” Can you share an example of how clear and open communication has helped you be successful in your role?
Varghese: My team, colleagues across teams, and the leadership team have played a great role in my success at GDT, especially leadership with their open communication. Their transparency helped a lot because as employees, we get to see the bigger picture and work towards it.
There is a lot of transparency between the employees and leadership. What stands out for me here in GDT is that our leaders are very approachable and ever willing to listen to everyone, even with their busy schedules. This has motivated me a lot, as we do not find such leaders everywhere.
There is a lot of transparency between the employees and leadership. What stands out for me here in GDT is that our leaders are very approachable and ever willing to listen to everyone, even with their busy schedules. This has motivated me a lot, as we do not find such leaders everywhere.
How do you ensure open communication within your team?
Varghese: Our team has an open-door policy where we practice transparency and being accessible to each other. We are open for feedback and help each other grow professionally. Our roles and responsibilities are clear, and we take ownership. We recently finished doing a SWOT analysis for each team member, thus helping each other to know where we stand in our current professional work.
What other aspects of our organizational vision, mission, or values resonate with you?
Varghese: GDT believes in accountability, and I believe in accountability. Here, we are all owners of our work and take pride in what we do and the team we work with.
GDT believes in accountability, and I believe in accountability. Here, we are all owners of our work and take pride in what we do and the team we work with.
What do you enjoy most about working at GDT? What motivates you to come to work every day?
Varghese: The people working at GDT are special right from entry level to the topmost level, and I love the energy and enthusiasm each one brings. Every department here is interdependent and connects with others to build a stronger working atmosphere.
The everyday opportunities to challenge yourself, to upskill, learn new technologies, and learn and understand other departments motivates me and drives me to work. Life at GDT has always been very special to me thanks to the people I work with and the leaders who walk the talk.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people may not know?
Varghese: During my school days, I used to draw and paint a lot. I have won prizes at various competitions for my art. I have represented my school in athletic and team sports events like Cricket, Volleyball, Basketball, and Handball.
Where would you say is your favorite place to be or travel to?
Varghese: My favorite place would always be “Home,” where my family is, and I love spending time with them outside my work. I love driving with my family to various places, especially the coastal part of India (southern India) which is known for beaches.
What advice would you give the younger you?
Varghese: Enjoy and love your work; it does not matter what you are doing, small or big, every work that we do matters to the company, and that is the reason we are hired. Always be ready to learn and unlearn things. Do not compare yourselves with other colleagues. Instead compete against yourself and grow at your own pace. GDT is the right place to learn, upskill, and grow.
Varghese’s dedication and expertise have been pivotal to our success. His ability to navigate complex projects and his commitment to excellence inspire us all. We are fortunate to have Varghese leading our PMO, and we look forward to many more achievements under his guidance. Thank you, Varghese, for your unwavering dedication! Learn more about GDT’s vibrant culture and explore our career options by visiting Life at GDT.
