Build what’s next, together

Zoubida Belhoussine, Head of People & Culture

1. What surprised you most about working at NTT DATA after you joined, compared to your expectations during the hiring process?
What surprised me the most was the genuine openness to transformation. During the hiring process, I expected a strong global organization with clear structures, which is totally true, but what I didn’t fully anticipate was the level of willingness across leaders to challenge the status quo and co-create new ways of working. We never take thinks for granted and always want to be one step further!

There is a real space for dialogue, for shaping culture, and for influencing strategic decisions in a meaningful way. That level of trust and empowerment has been both refreshing and motivating.

2. Can you share a recent project or challenge that made you feel proud, and what your role was in it?
One project I’m particularly proud of is leading cultural and organizational transformation initiatives across multiple countries. This involved co-creating elements such as mission, vision, and values with stakeholders, while ensuring alignment across different leadership levels and geographies.

My role is to facilitate dialogue, challenge perspectives, and translate feedback into something meaningful and actionable. What made me proud is not just the outcome, but the level of engagement it creates.

3. How has NTT DATA supported your professional or personal growth since you started?
NTT DATA has supported my growth by providing both autonomy and trust, which are key for me. I’ve had the opportunity to operate at a strategic level while also staying close to people and culture dynamics on the ground.

Additionally, working in such a diverse and international environment has expanded my perspective continuously, professionally, but also personally. It pushes you to adapt, to listen differently, and to grow in your leadership style.

4. What does collaboration look like in your day-to-day work here?
Collaboration is very dynamic and cross-functional. It’s not limited to formal structures, there’s a lot of informal exchange, co-creation, and iterative work.

In my day-to-day, collaboration means bringing together different perspectives, business leaders, People and culture teams, as well and employees to create safe spaces where ideas can be challenged constructively. It’s less about hierarchy and more about collective intelligence and shared ownership.

5. If a candidate is considering joining NTT DATA, what kind of person tends to thrive here — and why?
People who thrive here are those who are curious, adaptable, and comfortable navigating complexity. It’s a great environment for someone who wants to contribute, not just execute someone who is proactive and willing to challenge things respectfully.

Also, individuals who value collaboration and cultural diversity tend to do very well, as you work in a highly international and evolving context. If you’re looking for a place where you can shape, influence, and grow, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.