2023 Global Leaders in Consulting: Michael Valocchi

Michael has 35 years of experience serving clients in a variety of roles and is currently the SVP-Head of Cognizant Consulting and Americas Strategy. In this role, he oversees a 3,000+ person consulting organization that drives an industry-based agenda infused with leading-edge processes and technology capabilities for Fortune 500 firms. Cognizant Consulting's priorities focus on helping clients implement digital transformations and accelerate their growth by creating new operating and business models.

In addition, he is responsible for crafting the overall strategic plan for the unit focused on bringing together the market elements and industry capabilities into a cohesive strategy, including the overall M&A strategy. To drive this strategy, he is focused on enhancing overall client-centricity focus in the Americas, including the account model and coverage.

He joined Cognizant from IBM Global Business Services (GBS), where he was the Senior Client Partner on the Vodafone/IBM Cloud Venture. This venture focused on innovative market solutions bringing together the connectivity and multicloud strengths of the two organizations.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

My admission to the PwC partnership was a significant milestone in my career. Being recognized by the partnership team as having the ability to join them was a significant recognition. I still remember that day as one of the greatest achievements in my professional career.

What advice would you give a professional just beginning a career in consulting?

I would advise early professionals to focus their efforts on building out skills and capabilities while embracing a learning ethos. This allows you to expand your horizons and accelerate your career. Do not focus on promotions and title enhancements, as they will come to you.

What have you loved most about your consulting career?

As a career consultant, I have embraced the intellectual and leadership challenges I have faced over the years. These have shaped me as a consulting leader and allowed me a wonderful career leading people and advising clients.

What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received.

Begin with the end in mind. Focus on your aspirations and build a roadmap towards those aspirations. That being said, ensure that you are flexible in that road map as it is a journey that may look different from what you imagined it to be in the beginning.

What does being honored as a Global Leader mean to you?

I am honored to be recognized by my peers and an industry-leading body for the work and leadership I have aspired to do for the consulting profession. Overall, this means so much to my Cognizant Consulting team. As we continue to evolve our strategy and build our consulting organization, this recognition is a clear statement of the hard work and leadership of the team. It demonstrates to them the value and impact of their efforts. Our clients continue to value the work of our consulting organization, and this added recognition from peers within consulting is inspirational for Cognizant Consulting.