Capgemini’s evolution from a small French startup to a global IT leader

Capgemini’s evolution from a small French startup to a global IT leader is marked by strategic mergers and a shift toward high-growth technologies like AI. 

Corporate History Timeline

  • 1967: Serge Kampf founded Sogeti in Grenoble, France, focusing on enterprise management and data processing.
  • 1973–1975: Through hostile takeovers and mergers with CAP and Gemini Computer Systems, the group became CAP Gemini Sogeti.
  • 1985–1988: The company was listed on the Paris Stock Exchange (1985) and entered the CAC 40 index (1988).
  • 1996: The name was simplified to Cap Gemini, and a new logo was launched.
  • 2000: Acquired Ernst & Young Consulting for $11 billion, expanding its global reach, especially in North America.
  • 2004: The brand officially became Capgemini to reflect a unified global identity.
  • 2015: Acquired iGate for $4 billion, making North America its largest market.
  • 2019–2021: Acquired Altran (2019), later rebranded as Capgemini Engineering (2021), to dominate the engineering and R&D services sector.
  • 2024–2025: The strategic focus shifted to AI. In July 2025, Capgemini announced a €3.3 billion deal to acquire WNS Global Services to bolster its agentic AI and intelligent operations. 

Recruitment & Career Timelines

The hiring process typically follows this path:

  • Hiring Process: Usually takes a few weeks, involving application screening, multiple interview rounds (technical and HR), and background verification.
  • Graduate/Mass Hiring: Often conducted via the Superset platform, where status updates like “offered” appear roughly a week after interviews.
  • Graduate Programme: The Accelerate Programme (UK) spans approximately 21 months, starting with a 3-month business overview followed by 18 months in a specific pathway academy.
My own Capgemini career path 2016 – 2025
C&CA UK’s Communications & Engagement Award Winner 2022 – Cloud & Custom Applications – Capgemini UK
Campus – Serge Kampf Les Fontaines, Chantilly, France – Advanced EM Course – November 2017 Class – 2nd from left
November 2017 – Advanced Engagement Management Course – Level 2 Exam

Capgemini’s evolution from a small French startup to a global IT leader