Cognizant launched its government practice in 2011. Globally, Cognizant is making its initial push in the UK and US public sector markets; both markets are facing significant government reform (e.g. new banking regulations, healthcare reform). It is also being very selective in other large markets like India.
While Cognizant had some exposure to UK Government through the acquisition of PIPC, the program management consultancy, it is now making serious investments to grow in the sector. At the end of 2011, its search for an experienced leader in the government services area to lead its effort in the UK public sector culminated in the recruitment of Peter Gill to head up the new business unit. Gill was previously Head of UK Central Government at TCS. Having met with Gill, Georgina O'Toole considers Cognizant's chances of success in our latest PublicSectorViews research note: Cognizant: The challenge of breaking into the UK public sector. If you're not yet a subscriber, please contact Deb Seth.