Management Consultancy PDF

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
THE OFFICIAL GRADUATE CAREER GUIDE TO
Management
Consultancy Contents
The profession
30th Edition Finding the right job
Internships & Work experience
Graduate profiles
Senior profiles
The Institute & qualifications
Employer directory
The essential guide for anyone Job finder
looking to become a consultant
– Institute of Consulting
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‘The essential guide for anyone looking to

become a consultant’
Simon Bowen, Director of Membership Engagement
Institute of Consulting
‘All the information you need to start

your management consultancy career’
Alan Leaman, Chief Executive
Management Consultancies Association
CONTENTS
Introduction 5
THE PROFESSION
Management Consultancy in a Nutshell 08

Why Become a Consultant? 11
Salaries & Benefits 12
The Future of the Consulting Industry 14
FINDING THE RIGHT JOB GRADUATE PROFILES
Key Consulting Skills 18 Junior Consultant – Alfa 36

The Application Process 20 Associate Consultant – Bain & Company 38
Consultancy Assessments 22 Consultant – Sysdoc 40
Case Study Interviews 24 Senior Cyber Security Consultant – Thales Cyber and Consulting 42
INTERNSHIPS & WORK EXPERIENCE SENIOR PROFILES
Seeking & Securing Work Experience 28 Senior Consultant – Egremont Group 44

Summer Associate – BCG 30 Senior Consultant – LCP Consulting, a BearingPoint Company 46
Summer Student – Hymans Robertson 32 Principal Consultant – OEE Consulting 48
Summer Associate – L.E.K. Consulting 34
THE INSTITUTE & QUALIFICATIONS
About the Institute of Consulting 52

Professional Consultancy Qualifications 53
About the MCA 56
About the Young MCA 58
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY INTRODUCTION FROM THE MANAGEMENT
CONSULTANCIES ASSOCIATION
Accenture 62
Alfa 63 There are very few areas of our economy or wider society that have
A.T. Kearney 64 not benefitted from the work of Britain’s management consultants.
Firms work with a hugely diverse range of clients and provide
BAE Systems 65 a fantastic set of services, many of them at the leading edge of
BCG 66 innovation and creativity.
Charles River Associates 67 The UK is a world leader in consulting and you have a lot of choice when deciding which firm to
CIL Management Consultants 68 work for; many of them feature in the MCA’s Annual Awards or have committed to the Consulting
Excellence scheme, the new hallmark of quality in consulting.
Credo 69
Hymans Robertson 70 Of course, consulting can be a tough and demanding career. It requires strong commitment as
well as skill. You must be able to learn fast, have a passion for really making a difference and be
L.E.K. Consulting 71 able to work effectively with clients and colleagues. Above all, it is about turning good ideas into
Marakon 72 real and valuable business results.
NERA Economic Consulting 74 You’ll see a lot more information in this great guide to the industry. If you like what you see, go for it! 
OC&C Strategy Consultants 75
Alan Leaman is the CEO of the Management Consultancies Association.
Roland Berger 76
Sysdoc 77
INTRODUCTION FROM THE INSTITUTE OF

CONSULTING AND THE CMI
JOB FINDER
A career in consultancy is one of the most exciting, challenging and rewarding
careers available. Whether working in a big practice or working independently,
the work is varied and fulfilling.
Job Finder 78
Consultancy spreads across all sectors, providing the opportunity to understand
industry-specific issues, trends and businesses. You will be exposed to a variety
of clients and, even at the beginning of your career, you’re likely to have
opportunities to work with experienced people, assisting senior consultants as
they interact with clients.
Membership of the Institute of Consulting has a crucial role to play in your career. The Institute
promotes and advances the consultancy profession, supports its community of consultants and
enables you to differentiate yourself from the crowd.
By choosing to become a consultant you will be joining an exciting industry which will challenge
you, excite you and reward you. I wish you every success for the future. 
Simon Bowen MBA CMgr FCMI is the Director of Membership Engagement for the Chartered Management
Institute and Institute of Consulting.
Management Consultancy | www.insidecareers.co.uk/man 5

THE PROFESSION
Management Consultancy in a Nutshell 08
Why Become a Consultant? 11
Salaries & Benefits 12
The Future of the Consulting Industry 14
FINDING THE RIGHT JOB

Key Consulting Skills 18
The Application Process 20
Consultancy Assessments 22
Case Study Interviews 24

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY IN A NUTSHELL
MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY
IN A NUTSHELL
Management consultants are problem solvers, expert advisers and business EMILY BRENNAN TECHNOLOGY
catalysts. With help from members of the Young MCA we take a look at the different ATOS CONSULTING
types of consultancies and what they do, alongside the variety of areas in which you DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION CONSULTANT
can find consulting work.
As a digital consultant, all roles and projects centre on technologies within
organisations, covering strategic to implementation perspectives. My roles
In essence, a consultant’s job is to advise an Types of consultancy on projects have stretched from optimising a business’s website content to
organisation on improvements that can be GENERALIST meet its key business objectives; to working across multiple public services to intelligently
made to its business. Consultancy usually These are large consulting firms that offer a identify potentially vulnerable citizens in society; to working internationally with my client’s
involves identification and assessment of a range of consultancy services and are normally technical suppliers to validate that requirements are being met.
problem or analysis of a specific area, reporting part of a wider business which also offers
findings and formulating recommendations. services in accounting, tax and corporate
advisory. Consultants within these firms often
Range of work have a broad knowledge of several different work and often specialise in one or a few Consulting sectors
Early on in your career you will gain a functional areas, giving them the variety of specialist fields such as change management, The range of work in consultancy is extremely
range of experiences – a key attraction working across different sectors. programme management, financial varied and consultants can be found in almost
for many graduates considering a career management, operations or business process any sector. Some of the main areas you could
in consultancy. It is likely that you will STRATEGY re-engineering. Pure firms are often small to expect to work in are outlined below.
enter the profession within a generalist or Usually small or medium-sized, strategy medium in size and consultants have specific
strategy firm; as your experience grows you consultancies provide strategic advice and sector or service knowledge. FINANCIAL SERVICES
will become more specialised, enabling you bespoke solutions to fit the specific needs Consultants in this sector work across the
to work in areas you find most interesting of a company. Strategy consultants work IT & SERVICE PROVIDERS financial services industry. Clients range
and rewarding. out the issues in the operations and work This covers a broad range of consulting from asset managers, banks and insurance
strategy of a company; this could include services as IT is itself a diverse field. companies, to regulators and infrastructure
Consultancies vary in size, specialism and the reorganisation of a company’s structure, Consultants here help businesses to get the providers. The consultant’s job is to find
focus. At one end of the market the larger firms corporate and organisational strategy, public most out of their systems; this may involve innovative ways to optimise processes, reduce
offer end-to-end solutions and, at the other, policy and functional strategy. systems analysis and design or implementing operational costs, implement new technologies,
niche firms offer specialist skills and industry and administrating an IT system. They won’t manage risks and improve customer service,
knowledge. However, it is possible to broadly PURE MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCIES necessarily have a deep knowledge of the all whilst remaining compliant with changes in
group consultancies by type and sector. These firms focus solely on consulting client’s industry and therefore may work legislation and the regulatory landscape.
alongside other specialists.
PRIVATE HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCES
NICHE SPECIALISTS Clients in this sector range from small
ALISTER HABERFIELD GENERALIST Sometimes called boutique or specialist entrepreneurial life sciences companies to
consultancies, these firms specialise in a large global corporations. Consultants could
PwC
particular field and have an in-depth knowledge be involved in finding ways to improve R&D
SENIOR ASSOCIATE IN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION of their subject area. Niche consultants can productivity, improving business models
be found in almost any business area, with or redefining the health value chain. The
I heard that management consulting provided a variety of different types of consultants being able to work in a wide range challenge here is to develop business strategies
projects in a wide range of industries, as well as offering the opportunity to of sectors. Some of the common areas for that respond to disruptive technology, reform
travel with work. Needless to say I wasn’t disappointed; after embarking on specialist consultancy include: agendas and the rising cost of healthcare, all
the Foundation for the Future, Management Consulting graduate scheme at • Health within global regulatory frameworks.
PwC, I worked on projects ranging from mapping customer journeys and creating prototypes • HR
for a building society’s new online offering, to programme management of a healthcare • Finance DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY
economy’s transformation programme. Management consulting has lived up to all my • Marketing  The role of a technology consultant is to
expectations and more – it provides constant opportunities to learn new skills, experience new • Public sector  advise and support clients with implementing
industries, make a difference to clients and meet new people. • Retail  technology into their operations and
• Transport. transforming their IT-infrastructures in order to
8 Management Consultancy | www.insidecareers.co.uk/man Management Consultancy | www.insidecareers.co.uk/man 9

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY IN A NUTSHELL
WHY BECOME A CONSULTANT?

With the help of the Young MCA’s
VISH VALIVETY HEALTH skills survey we take a look at some
PPL of the top reasons for choosing a
MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT career in consulting.
PPL is a specialist consultancy firm that primarily focuses on health and

social care. The small team structure at PPL meant that I was given greater Diversity
autonomy and responsibility over a number of workstreams early in my The number one factor that draws
career. This quickly gave me in-depth experience across the entire lifecycle of transformation students to management consultancy
projects – from scoping to implementation – and strengthened my fundamental consulting is the diversity of work. You will gain
skills across analytics, stakeholder engagement and project management. At PPL, I’ve been experience across sectors, industries and
able to experience a wide array of exciting projects. This includes redesigning care services possibly even countries.
that reach over 200,000 older people in Surrey, bringing healthcare providers and local
commissioners together to work more efficiently in Islington and managing the initiation of an Salary
innovative programme to improve maternity services in North West London. On entry into the profession you could
be earning in the region of £35,000. For
salaries in more depth head to page 12.
cut costs and improve efficiency. Consultants layout of a production department, production Multiple industries
give a range of advice on: information needs, control arrangements, productivity and It is unlikely that you will be 100%
the provision of software, systems analysis incentive schemes or quality control problems. sure what sector you want to go into
and design, computer feasibility studies and when you leave university; a career in
implementing computer applications. RETAIL & LEISURE consultancy will allow you to discover
Primarily involved in business growth, what interests you most. It will also
MANUFACTURING consultants could be advising on property and give you a vast skill set that can be
Consultants in this sector are likely to serve location strategies, customer research, visual transferred to any job.
clients within the fast-moving consumer merchandising, franchising, staff training or
goods (FMCG), consumer packaged goods investment. Clients range from landlords and Career opportunities
(CPG) and industrial production industries. investors to high streets and shopping centres. You will be given early responsibility
The consultant’s job is to help manufacturing as well as the opportunity to work with
companies stay ahead of the market, gain a The variety of work available ensures that a senior colleagues and clients. Progression
competitive advantage or improve long-term career in consultancy provides diverse, interesting is in your hands; there are lots of
profitability. This could involve a review of the and rewarding opportunities to any graduate.  opportunities to grow and you don’t
necessarily have to wait for your boss to
leave to progress. Networking is a huge
NATALIE FISHER MANAGEMENT & ENGINEERING part of consultancy; you’ll work with
colleagues at all levels and clients at a
MOTT MACDONALD variety of organisations – make the most
MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT of it. Your connections can make a huge
difference to your career progression.
Mott MacDonald is a global engineering, management and development
consultancy. While I have spent the majority of my time delivering projects Training
in the education and health sectors, the management consultancy practice Fast-paced projects mean you’ll learn a
also works in other areas including buildings, environment, water, energy and lot on-the-job and continue to develop
transport. Over the last two years, I have worked on an exciting project supporting all 152 local throughout your career. As well as
authorities across England with a large-scale national change programme. I have progressed broadening your technical and soft skills
through several different client-facing roles and now manage my own strand of the programme. you can gain consulting qualifications
Day to day I facilitate workshops, engage and consult with partners from a range of different through the Institutes. You can find out
organisations and help deliver the project as effectively as possible. more about professional consultancy
qualifications on page 53. 

SALARIES & BENEFITS
SALARIES & BENEFITS

Management consultancy salaries are comparable with some of the best paid jobs in
the country. Find out what you could earn at each stage of your career, how salaries CONSULTANCY SALARIES BY SENIORITY
vary across sectors and specialisms, and what employers expect in return. Level Average Salary
Analyst £35,000
A Brexit effect on salaries? At undergraduate level, the consulting Consultant £55,000

As the UK economy becomes more and more arms of the ‘Big Four’ are all competing
characterised by the result of the Brexit vote in with each other and the top tier strategy Senior Consultant £65,000
summer 2016, there are valid questions to be houses (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) for top ranking
asked about whether or not the management students – all in addition to the fast growing Manager £80,000
consulting landscape has changed and what mid-size consulting firms and emerging
effects, if any, there have been on salaries. Well, digital consultancies. The competition is Senior Manager/Assistant Director £100,000
the answer is ‘not much’ – or at least ‘not much also fierce with other industries; areas such
yet’. The widespread uncertainty and initial as digital technology, private equity and Principal/Director £150,000
caution after the referendum result has been telecoms now sit alongside the traditional
balanced by a steady growth in confidence and sectors such as investment banking. Equity Director/Salaried Partner £250,000+
activity in the management consulting market.
So, while the demand for places still
far outstrips the supply of openings in Salaries are also influenced by billings. Consultants partner earnings, but press reports indicate that
management consulting, the industry are expected to bill fees of around 3-5 times their senior partners enjoy packages in excess of
annual salaries and therefore sectors with higher £1 million once all the add-ons are considered.
For the latest Brexit news: continues to offer enticing salaries to attract
profits will support higher fees.
www.insidecareers.co.uk/news the best graduates.
Start-up or small boutique outfits will often
Salary structures Bonuses and benefits offer a stock or profit share incentive but tend
There is no definitive, all-encompassing The market-rate ‘basic salary + variable bonus’ not to offer much beyond health schemes and
Indeed, recent statistics have suggested that salary index – such is the wide scope of the structure is still predominant, but smaller basic life assurance on the benefits side. Personal
the UK consulting market grew almost four management consulting market – but the salaries with larger potential cash bonuses pension schemes predominate.
times faster than the economy in 2015 and table opposite offers average benchmark attached to specific targets is a growing idea.
2016, up nearly 10%. figures for the primary role descriptions Conclusions
found across the industry. These figures The traditional benefits and incentives still exist Comparisons based on basic salary alone can
For example, a busy regulatory environment are drawn from employed consultants (no including a car or cash alternative for Manager be misleading – such are the complexities
has bolstered the growth of the ‘Big Four’ self-employed consultants are surveyed) grades and above (typically £6,000-£10,000 per of overall packages – but the management
accountancy firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG and who work in firms of all sizes, sectors and annum) while a ‘benefits or cash’ offering can consulting market is in a healthy hiring loop
PwC), with a particular emphasis on financial functional areas. The common thread is that be worth up to 25% on top of the basic salary. and competitive salary packages abound. This
services, while operational efficiency, cost they are working in or around London, the is driven both by competition amongst rival
cutting, business process re-organisation nexus of the consulting industry in the UK. A range of new and different benefits consultancies and to stave off the ever-present
and M&A/post-merger integration are other Salaries in the rest of the country are around are appearing in employment contracts, threat of consultants leaving for other industries.
prominent areas of growth right now – all 5-15% lower (sometimes more, depending sometimes driven by competition and
commanding steadily strong salary packages. on the region). sometimes by the need to embrace diversity Statistics from the Management Consultancies
and flexibility. A standard ‘Bereavement Leave’ Association suggest only 13% of those who
Graduate and entry levels Industry sector background can also have policy of around 10-20 days is one example leave consulting leave for better compensation
On a general level, management consultancies a bearing on salary. Consultants hired from becoming more commonplace. and benefits elsewhere. 
find themselves busier than at any time in highly-remunerated industries such as
recent years. The increased demand for pharmaceuticals, financial services and media Bonuses at the large operational consultancies Tariq Siraj is a Manager at Beament Leslie Thomas
services means a corresponding increase in will often be brought in as specialists and tend to be less generous (up to 20% in theory (BLT) www.blt.co.uk, a leading management consultancy
the number of consultants, particularly at entry command a premium over their consultant but usually closer to 5-10% in practice) than recruitment consultancy. Celebrating 30 years in 2017,
level. Competition amongst the firms to recruit peer group. Those at the lower end of the those offered by the strategy and boutique the firm has been recognised with Top Recruitment
the best graduates is fierce, and this is reflected salary bands tend to have come from the firms (25-40%). Signing-on bonuses are still Firm and Top Individual Recruiter awards for eight
in the financial rewards offered by the industry. public sector, manufacturing, or retail. rare. The large partnerships are secretive about straight years in the Top Consultant reader polls.

THE FUTURE OF THE CONSULTING INDUSTRY
THE FUTURE OF THE

CONSULTING INDUSTRY
The consulting industry continually adapts to meet the needs of its client base. In this It should be noted that these impacts are not The second benefit is for consultants. The
article, the MCA discusses the emerging trends, opportunities and threats that are likely post-Brexit. The UK has not yet left the EU. rise of digital makes this a uniquely exciting
They are post-Brexit decision impacts. We time to work in the industry. Unlike many
to shape your career in consultancy. will see how they change as we move nearer specialist digital boutiques, consultants get an
to final disengagement. opportunity to play with all the digital toys.
In recent years consulting has outperformed the Advice needs in the public sector have also At a recent Young MCA Year of Digital event,
wider economy. While the UK grew at 2.2% in grown in recent years. With diminishing Digital over 90% of young consultants said that digital
2015, consulting grew at 8.05%. Much of the rise resources and rising citizen expectations, In 2015, digital remained the largest consulting made consulting a more attractive profession.
in activity is connected to consulting’s support public services have to achieve more for less. service line. Recruitment of digital consultants
for businesses’ growth strategies. The economy’s They need consultants to support ambitious across MCA member firms has rocketed. There
return to growth after the shocks of 2008 and the transformational change programmes. With are now around 12,000 digital consultants out
recession is welcome. But it is also challenging. even more exacting spending cuts likely in the of around 45,000 employees. For more consultancy trends:
Business sectors have been hugely disrupted, not new parliament, consulting will remain at the www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
least by digital. So senior executives need advice heart of public service reform. As our highly successful MCA Year of Digital
to help them test new growth propositions has shown, consultants are active right across
and get ‘match fit’ for growth. Consultants are Brexit the digital value chain, from Big Data analytics,
providing the insights needed. Consulting is The UK’s decision to leave the European social media, Cloud, gamification, through to Strategy
growing by helping others grow. Union will ultimately shape the future of cyber security and even AI. This breadth of But digital is not the whole story of consulting.
many industries, but what will it mean for activity has two principal benefits: The industry is full of specialists in programme
consultancy specifically? For many it is management, finance, operational excellence,
‘too early to say’. According to the MCA’s The first is for clients. The MCA surveyed marketing and communications, and human
second quarterly Brexit survey, conducted in business leaders about digital. We discovered resources. Consulting constantly evolves,
early 2017, the general consensus (85% of that while the topic is extremely important to acquiring new capabilities to match changes in
respondents) is that the Brexit vote has had them, they don’t necessarily have a detailed the economy. The political consensus on the
a negligible effect on their firm’s revenue, understanding of what it means. Consultants importance of better transport, energy and
though 8% now record a positive impact. are steeped in digital culture. Some consulting communications networks as a driver of growth
firms have technology backgrounds. Many are is reflected in the fact that consulting is active in
The effects of Brexit will of course differ recruiting digital experts to ensure that they have every area of infrastructure, including the most
between consulting sectors. Respondents the most topical insights at their disposal. But as specialised. Very often this relentless acquisition
suggest a more positive outlook for the consultants, they also know that what matters of new capabilities is a function of clients’
manufacturing sector (as well as, to a to businesses is how digital will impact their interest in getting things done. Consultants
less marked extent, for infrastructure and strategy, recruitment needs, their investments, advise clients on how to address problems –
transport). Manufacturing’s position is and most importantly their profitability. and then often give them practical help as well.
doubtless linked to sterling’s competitiveness.
By contrast, respondents suggest worsening Consultants can link cutting-edge digital One consulting staple that has reinvented itself
prospects for private health/life sciences, a insights to the business bottom line in ways is strategy. The traditional model of extended
more polarised outlook for retail, while there business leaders can understand and relate to. assignments producing long-term strategic
is a notable intensification of concerns about They are helping digitise areas such as retail, plans is outmoded. In the relentlessly changing
financial services. High-profile reports of where consumer expectations are driving huge Digital Age, with its foreshortened business
financial services institutions contemplating channel shifts. They are transforming financial cycles and agile innovation culture, business
relocation will have contributed here. services (again increasingly in customer-facing must mobilise fast, fail fast, succeed fast.
areas, like retail banking) and in infrastructure, Things feel more tactical than strategic in this
MCA members, in common with many other energy and utilities and manufacturing, they get-things-done, results game.
business leaders, are very unlikely to want are linking data analytics to systems and
to see a ‘hard’ Brexit, and will favour the products. Applying the concept of the ‘internet But this culture means businesses face
retention of many of the benefits of the EU, of things’, they are helping personalise complex problems, more intractable and
in particular access to skilled labour and the the transport system, automate domestic unpredictable than ever before. Consultants
Single Market – though for many this is more heating systems and pioneer networked and bring the range of expertise clients need in
significant for their clients than their firms. (eventually) driverless cars. strategically integrated teams that can help

100s Jobs
THE FUTURE OF THE CONSULTING INDUSTRY
them deliver. And clients are still interested The ongoing challenge consulting firms face
in the future. They can’t predict what will is the need to transform themselves. They
happen; no one can. But they need to know must keep pace with what is happening in the
if they have the preparedness to deal with economy and ensure their advice to clients
what does happen. They want to fit their to modernise is rooted in a change culture of
investments, innovations and new ‘plays’ their own. They also need to embrace digital
into a vision. Operating at both the strategic opportunities in their resource management
vantage and in delivery, consultants can and the delivery of assignments. Our members
test an organisation’s strategic resilience. are doing so with gusto.
They can help clients create a flexible and
adaptable vision to guide them in their
relentless tactical decision making. As the
challenges of growth in the private sector The industry will still need great
and getting more for less in the public sector brains and dogged, detailed
become increasingly complex, strategy
consulting is again on the rise, accounting for analysts. But it also needs
over 10% of all consulting activity in 2014. creatives, coders and people
International who see things differently.
The UK is regarded globally as cutting edge
in consulting. It is also regarded as being
exceptionally innovative in sectors where What does this mean for graduates entering
consultants are active, such as retail or the job market?
health. Consultants are leading advisers on There has never been a more exciting time to
financial modelling, public service reform and be a consultant. The industry operates across all
digital consulting. They are helping retailers sectors of an increasingly exciting, challenging
cope with change and disruption. They are and protean economy. It is central to digital.
helping transform A&E and supporting And it is open to new talent. In 2015 we saw a
new approaches to integrated care. So, it is 13% increase in new recruits and graduate hires.
understandable that they are much sought
after beyond these shores. Active in the
Eurozone, but also in the Middle East, North
America and Asia Pacific especially, our
Partly to address the dynamics of digital and
the challenges of growth in unpredictable
and fast-moving economic conditions, MCA
Find your dream Consultancy
role online today.
members continue to indicate in surveys member firms are hungry for recruits that don’t
that they expect to expand their overseas necessarily conform to the identikit British
operations further in the coming years. corporate type. The industry will still need
great brains and dogged, detailed analysts. But
Opportunities and challenges for the sector it is also needs creatives, coders and people
In common with the rest of the economy, who see things differently.
consulting faces significant challenges in
how to secure the skills it requires for the Graduates looking for an opportunity to work
future. Skills needs raise questions about our on an array of cutting-edge projects with
education system and the free movement some of the biggest names in the FTSE 100
of labour across borders, debates in which or major departments of state and public
MCA members are heavily involved. Digital service bodies, need look no further than
skills are obviously at a premium. But so are management consulting. 
core business skills. Blending emerging skills
with ‘traditional’ ones is a basic challenge The MCA website provides authoritative data,
for the whole economy and one which easy-access insights and interviews with key players in
consulting is taking seriously. the UK consulting industry. Visit www.mca.org.uk
GRADUATE JOBS | INTERNSHIPS & PLACEMENTS | ADVICE
16 Management Consultancy | www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
www.insidecareers.co.uk
KEY CONSULTING SKILLS
KEY CONSULTING SKILLS

What key skills do graduates need to impress future employers? Richard Stewart, founder to do simple calculations quickly in their head useful. Technical skills can be learned through
without a calculator, and be able to ‘sense courses at university, and can be taken further
of consultancy recruitment firm, Mindbench, advises on the competencies you need to
check’ the answer to know if it is reasonable through internships and business start-ups.
possess in order to become a successful consultant. He discusses how to develop these given the circumstances. Relevant experience can also be gained in
skills as well as how to demonstrate them throughout the consultancy application process. problem solving and logical thinking by
3. LEADERSHIP undertaking appropriate case study review.
Consulting firms are looking for their
Do I need a degree? clients. Consulting firms generally insist that a consultants to take clients on what can be a
Consulting firms all generally require candidate is a UK or European national or has difficult journey. They are also on an accelerated
candidates to hold a degree. Most do not the right to work in the UK. Some of the larger development path internally, which means Live internship opportunities:
specify which discipline a candidate must firms are willing to sponsor individual work that they will quickly be managing more junior www.insidecareers.co.uk/jobs
come from, but they typically expect an visas for candidates on a case by case basis. members of staff. Employers therefore look for
upper second or a first class degree. Some nascent leadership potential in their hires.
consulting firms with a highly analytical What key skills are employers looking for?
focus prefer that candidates have a degree Firms are looking for a blend of demonstrable 4. ABILITY TO WORK WELL UNDER PRESSURE How can I demonstrate these skills within
which is quantitative in nature such as competencies and attributes. Consulting work can be unpredictable and is an application/interview?
engineering, maths or science. It is worth often situated far away from the base office In the CV and cover letter there is normally
bearing in mind that a number of the big 1. LOGICAL THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING at a client’s site. This can cause pressures space to summarise any relevant skills. Some
consulting firms are now abolishing their Firms need candidates who can structure a beyond most industry roles, which are usually online application forms will also ask for
entry requirements and placing more problem logically and come up with a reasoned at a fixed location. information on these areas. One stage of
emphasis on individual behaviours and solution with the available data points. They the interview process will normally focus on
values than on traditional academic routes. should also be able to create estimates where 5. COMMUNICATION SKILLS competencies; candidates should thoroughly
the data doesn’t exist already. Consulting firms work across sectors and research employers beforehand to find out
Are there any other entry requirements? at different levels of an organisation. They what specific competencies they expect
Certain consulting firms require candidates to 2. ANALYTICAL CAPABILITY may require consultants to work on the candidates to hold. The skills will typically
be fluent in particular foreign languages. This Most firms are looking for graduates with factory floor or in the boardroom. Employers be tested out as well through case study
is because the scope of their work includes a high level of numeracy, who can think on therefore need consultants who can interface interviews and sometimes also through maths
several countries and business proficiency their feet. It doesn’t mean that they need well with different audiences and have a clear tests, technical tests and group exercises.
in the local language helps to engage with advanced maths, but they do need to be able communication style, building trust easily.
Any other advice?
6. TECHNICAL SKILLS Don’t just apply to the major firms – search for
Some consulting firms require an advanced the smaller consulting firms on the internet,
level of data modelling skills. This could involve particularly looking at those that work in the
advanced Excel, VBA or SQL. For consulting sectors and functional areas that most interest
work which involves implementation, you. You can also find many of the smaller
programming languages such as C# or mobile, firms listed on the MCA’s website as members.
and big data languages such as Hadoop and Speak to alumni who have worked at the
Python are becoming more popular as well. firms to find out more about what it is really
like to work there. If you are working with
How can I develop these skills? recruiters, check for any information they have
The best way to gain these skills is through on the interview process and what the specific
undertaking internships at consulting skills and aptitudes the firm wants you to
firms. This will show that the candidate demonstrate during the interview are. 
has a clear interest in the profession whilst
simultaneously testing out capability. Richard Stewart is the founder of Mindbench, an
Internships at blue chip industry firms and award-winning specialist recruitment firm for the
extracurricular activities which demonstrate management consultancy sector globally. Take a look
initiative and involve team based work, such at their website for new graduate roles which are
as running sports events or charities, are also coming live: www.mindbench.com

THE APPLICATION PROCESS
THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Your application is your chance to sell yourself to a potential employer and prove why you are applying for the role at that particular work well within a team environment, and
you are perfect for the job. L.E.K. Consulting tells us what consultancy employers are company, and what attributes you have to demonstrate your commitment to personal
bring. Take the time to check the application and professional development, all of which
looking for and what key information you should always provide.
page on the company website to ensure you form an important part of the overall skill
address the cover letter to the correct recruiter. set of a successful associate.
Within the cover letter, demonstrate how Online presence tips

The first stage to achieving a job in consulting Application forms you have interacted with the company you For many companies your online activity is now
is the application process. Before you start All application forms are likely to ask slightly are applying to by visiting their stand at an important part of the application process.
applying for consulting jobs it is so important different things, however there are some careers fairs, attending their workshops or LinkedIn is an excellent way to promote
to make sure you have taken the time to questions that you can expect to crop up reading their publications. yourself and your skills outside of your CV.
do your research. You will find that most throughout your job search: Update your LinkedIn page so it includes all of
companies provide information on their 1. Why do you want to work for us? The majority of consulting firms now have your relevant experience and qualifications. 
website about their application process, details 2. What does consulting involve? What do recruitment/application videos uploaded on
about deadlines, as well as what happens you think makes a good consultant? their website. Ensuring that you look through
at various stages. Understanding these will 3. Give an example of when you have shown what is available will give you a good feel for
ensure you give yourself the right amount of leadership or been particularly persuasive. the company and what they are looking for.
time for each application. 4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
5. Give an example of an achievement you’re Make sure your CV has a clear and simple
particularly proud of. layout, and ensure that it highlights your key
Within the cover letter, 6. Give an example of when you have used skills and achievements. Your CV should include:
your problem solving abilities. • Personal details – your name and
demonstrate how you have 7. What have you learned from previous contact details.
interacted with the company by jobs/work experience? • Qualifications – your university and
8. Do you have any additional skills, such as degree title, attained or expected result,
visiting their stand at careers IT or languages? followed by your A level and GCSE
fairs, attending their workshops results or equivalent.
Allow yourself plenty of time to complete the • Work experience – whilst it is great
or reading their publications. application forms. Remember to answer all the if you have commercial experience,
questions and make sure you read through all of recruiters are very aware that it can
your completed form before submitting. At this be difficult to find such internship
Application processes will vary between stage attention to detail is really important, so opportunities. It is really important that
companies. For some you will have to complete make sure you check your spelling and grammar. in this section you demonstrate how
an online application form and for others you you have tried to gain commercial or
will be asked to submit your CV and covering Ensure you have uploaded all the documents consulting insight. This can be through
letter online. You will also find that for many that each firm has asked for. Once you work experience, work shadowing,
consulting firms you will be asked to complete have submitted the application form you business insight days or interaction with
an online test as part of the application will receive an acknowledgement from consulting clubs and societies.
process, more information on these tests can the company. If you do not receive the • Skills – in this section recruiters are looking
be found in the next article on page 22. This acknowledgement, get in touch with the for you to demonstrate your teamwork,
is why it is so important for you to check the company to confirm that they have received communication and self-awareness skills;
company website well in advance of application your application; it will be too late to do this highlight your key strengths and give the
deadlines so that you are fully prepared for once the application deadline has passed. evidence to back them up.
their specific application requirements. • Hobbies and interests – when applying
CV and cover letter for a management consulting position, it is
To help you prepare and get organised for Your cover letter is a great opportunity for you really important to include extra-curricular
the application process, a helpful tip would to sell yourself and demonstrate that you have activities on your CV. These interests
be to put together your own document with researched the company you are applying for. highlight important transferable skills that
the company name, application deadline and are extremely valuable in the workplace.
the documents required for each consulting Recruiters can easily spot a generic cover Extra-curricular activities will also highlight
firm you are applying to. letter, so it is important that you explain why your ability to manage your time effectively,

CONSULTANCY ASSESSMENTS
CONSULTANCY ASSESSMENTS
Assessments, both online and in person, form a key part of the recruitment process COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEWS
Interviews are a common part of any
in consultancy. In this article, management consultancy firm Oliver Wyman helps you
assessment process and therefore For practice tests head to:
understand the purpose of the assessments and offers tips on how best to tackle them. www.insidecareers.co.uk/career-advice
candidates should expect to have at least
one competency-based interview. At Oliver
Wyman and other consultancy firms, these
are conducted by a senior consultant in the CASE STUDY INTERVIEWS
There are a variety of different forms of it is not a prerequisite for a candidate to have business. The purpose of the interview is In the recruitment process for consultancy firms,
assessment, which include: application forms studied A level maths or a quantitative-based to determine a candidate’s experience and there will usually be a case study interview; this
and CVs (covered in the previous article), subject at university, those who have not may whether they possess the qualities required for is an interactive exercise in analytical thinking
online tests, assessment centres and find a further benefit in completing the practice the role. Whilst an interviewer will expect some that allows the firm to assess how a candidate
competency-based and case study interviews. tests before sitting the firm’s assessments. degree of nerves, it is important not to let approaches and evaluates a problem.
them get the better of you as this will prevent
Online tests you from performing to your true potential. During the case study, think of the case
As part of the application process, firms often Often an interviewer will have a copy of your interviewer as your client. Remember the
CV and the interview will be based around this, interviewer wants you to solve the problem,
invite candidates to complete online tests.
Most consultancy firms, including Oliver
Some of the tests will examine as such it is very important to have re-read and can help, so it is important to work
Wyman, will ask you to complete the tests prior your experience, whilst others your CV before your interview so you know together. More information on case studies can
what information the interviewer already has. be found in the following article.
to interview, though some may ask you to visit
their offices to complete them. A candidate’s
are designed to test your ability
performance in the test will then be used in to think logically and creatively. An interview is your opportunity to GROUP EXERCISES
conjunction with the original application when demonstrate your desire for a career within Group exercises can vary in topic, with some
making interview decisions. There are a number consultancy and specifically, a role at that directly related to consultancy and others
of different online tests used by consulting particular firm. As such, have strong reasons based on solving a business problem or even
firms including numerical, critical reasoning, CRITICAL REASONING TESTS for applying and build on the research that a simple unrelated task. They do however
verbal reasoning and personality tests. Critical reasoning questions test a candidate’s you completed when submitting the original have one common theme: they are assessing
ability to analyse logical arguments and form application. It is important for you to know the how well you work with and interact within
Candidates are encouraged to practice for conclusions. When completing the tests, it is type of work the firm does, their competitors, the group. Firms want to see evidence of
the online tests; this will help you get used imperative that candidates read the supporting and any recent transactions/successes. All of your team working and communication
to the format of the questions, the types of text fully and understand the conclusions of this information, and more, can be found on skills, as well as problem solving abilities
questions you may be asked and the amount the argument. A candidate should not be put the firm’s careers website as well as in career and determination or drive. During a group
of time you will have. Completing practice tests off by not having experience in the subject profiles, such as those on Inside Careers. exercise, it is important to contribute valid and
will also give candidates the experience of matter of the argument. After reading the relevant points, whilst co-operating with other
working under pressure as online tests typically argument, candidates should read the question At the end of the interview, you may also members in the group.
have very short time limits. Practice tests can to ascertain what they are being asked for, be given the opportunity to ask questions.
be found through various online sources, then read the answer choices and select what Prepare yourself with a couple of strong It is common for group exercises to have
including the Inside Careers website, as well they feel is the best answer. It is important to questions about the company, to demonstrate a presentation element at the end. When
as often on the firm’s own website. When remember not to rush your answers, however, your interest in the firm. It is important not preparing for the presentation, there should
completing the test, try to avoid all distractions keep in mind that the test is timed, so try and to ask questions that can easily be found on be a clear structure with the points divided
as this can negatively impact your performance. work as quickly as possible. the website (how many positions available up equally between the team. It is important
etc.). Also, do not ask questions that are more that each group member knows which topics
The two online assessments used by Oliver Assessment centres related to the graduate recruitment department to address should any questions arise after
Wyman are numerical and critical reasoning tests. If successful over the preceding stages, a (next steps, when you will hear etc.) during the presentation, to ensure that concise and
candidate will be invited to meet with the the interview, typically this information will be relevant answers are delivered. 
NUMERICAL REASONING TESTS firm. This may be in the form of an assessment provided to you at the end of the interview day
Numerical reasoning tests are the most popular centre which can include a variety of and is a wasted opportunity to find out more
online assessments amongst consultancy different assessments, ranging from aptitude about the firm from your interviewer. This article was contributed by staff at Oliver Wyman.
firms. Given Oliver Wyman’s focus on strategic tests, group and individual interviews to
consulting, the numeracy test assesses a presentations. Some of the tests will examine
candidate’s ability to work with data as opposed your experience, whilst others are designed to
to their learned mathematical knowledge. Whilst test your ability to think logically and creatively.

CASE STUDY INTERVIEWS
CASE STUDY INTERVIEWS

The interview process can be a very daunting experience. What questions will you be will be looking for the same things a client you towards a solution. Don’t be afraid to ask
asked? What is a case study and how do you solve them? BCG explain the process and would expect when working with a consulting questions that check your understanding.
firm – innovative approaches that can change
provide us with some tips on how to succeed in a case study interview.
the rules of the game and creation of lasting DON’T PANIC IF THE ANSWER IS NOT APPARENT
competitive advantage. There is no right or wrong answer in our
interviews and you are not expected to know
DEMONSTRATE BUSINESS JUDGMENT everything about business. The objective of
The interview process is a dialogue aimed at Preparation for the case study Given that there is limited information available, the interview is for the interviewer to learn
getting to know you personally, learning more To prepare for the case study discussion, you the interviewer will ask you probing questions about your approach to solving business
about your analytical capabilities and also can review some practice cases from the BCG about your comments, hypotheses, or conclusions problems, so remember to discuss your line of
introducing you to the company, the people website. These examples will give you an idea to test your capability to use your judgment. thought with them.
and the work. You are assessed on your ability of what to expect in the case study portion of
to listen, communicate effectively and present the interview. You can also practice using BCG MAKE QUICK & ACCURATE CALCULATIONS DON’T DEFEND YOUR SOLUTION AT ALL COSTS
yourself with tact, energy, and persuasiveness. interactive online case. At some point, the interviewer may ask you to If the interviewer challenges the solution
make some simple calculations. Rather than you propose, don’t go on the defensive.
The interviewer looks for intellectual curiosity On the day of the interview, relax and be testing computational skill, this is meant to Acknowledge the possibility that the
and creative thinking. And sometimes, they just yourself. While there are no set rules on how see if you can use numbers to quickly form interviewer has brought up a relevant
want to find out what it would be like to spend to solve a case study, you will find below some opinions and guide decisions. Your calculations perspective that you had not considered and
a week on the road with you, working together advice that can help you succeed. should be accurate and integrated into what re-examine your thinking accordingly.
on a client project. Interviewers value a sense of you have discovered so far.
humour and a bit of ‘sparkle’ in your personality. LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEWER & ASK QUESTIONS DON’T INTERNALISE YOUR THOUGHT PROCESS
The interviewer will begin by laying out SYNTHESISE YOUR THOUGHTS & DRAW The interview should be a dialogue
Personal background the problem. You should take time to align CONCLUSIONS FROM YOUR ANALYSIS between you and the interviewer, so make
During the interview, the interviewer wants to your thinking, ask clarifying questions and At the end of the interview, you should sure you communicate your logic and
find out more about you and how you would communicate your line of reasoning to your summarise the key hypotheses and options underlying assumptions.
fit in the company. For example, you might be interviewer. The interviewer will also give you you have developed. Then, conclude with your
asked to describe ways you have been able to hints and help along the way, so don’t be recommended solution to the client’s problem. One last piece of advice: be yourself and
make an impact in a team environment. You afraid to take notes. have fun discussing the case. If you find this
could be asked to describe a time when you DON’T RUSH INTO THE ANALYSIS conversation exciting and entertaining, you’ll
were able to overcome obstacles, persuading STRUCTURE THE PROBLEM & FORM A WITHOUT DEVELOPING AN UNDERSTANDING likely enjoy being a consultant. 
others to go along with a decision that they FRAMEWORK OF THE PROBLEM
had initially resisted. The interviewer may Take a moment to think about the case to gain During the discussion, the interviewer will work
simply be curious to hear your motivation for perspective. Putting together a structure and a with you to organise your thoughts and steer This article was contributed by staff at BCG.
choosing to pursue a career with the company. framework will help you clarify each step and
enable you to identify the analysis you may
Case study want to perform to reach a solution.
The case study gives you an opportunity to
demonstrate your problem solving skills. THINK BEFORE SPEAKING
Because the case is likely based on a real Take some time to organise your ideas; don’t
client project your interviewer has worked jump too fast to conclusions.
on, you will gain a unique insight into what
consulting is like. FOCUS ON HIGH-IMPACT ISSUES
Concentrate on the issues that will really make
The case study will feature a business a difference and create value for your ‘client’,
problem that you will seek to solve during but make sure that you explain the reasons
the interview. It will not require extensive behind your choices.
knowledge of specific industries or processes
and some cases have no right or wrong GENERATE A HYPOTHESIS & EXPLORE
answers. Your questions and thought OPTIONS CREATIVELY
processes are more important than coming up Make suggestions on how to solve the key
with an actual solution. issues you have identified. The interviewer

INTERNSHIPS &
WORK EXPERIENCE
Seeking & Securing Work Experience 28
Summer Associate – BCG 30
Summer Student – Hymans Robertson 32
Summer Associate – L.E.K. Consulting 34
GRADUATE PROFILES
Junior Consultant – Alfa 36
Associate Consultant – Bain & Company 38
Consultant – Sysdoc 40
Senior Cyber Security Consultant – Thales Cyber and Consulting 42
SENIOR PROFILES
Senior Consultant – Egremont Group 44
Senior Consultant – LCP Consulting, a BearingPoint Company 46
Principal Consultant – OEE Consulting 48
SEEKING & SECURING WORK EXPERIENCE
SEEKING & SECURING WORK EXPERIENCE

Work experience is an important factor in helping graduates to get the job they scattergun approach and whittle your list down world, but ultimately I’d prefer a role where I
want. As competition in the current job market toughens, employers are looking for to under ten applications. If you find yourself can see a tangible outcome and I think I’d find
struggling to articulate why you want to work this in consulting’. If you don’t have relevant
graduates who are able to show they have applied their academic skills in a commercial
for a specific firm, take them off your list! work experience, make sure you meet with
environment – a degree is no longer enough. consulting firms when they visit your university.
The application process – any advice? You’ll need to make sure you can demonstrate
Recruiters understand that you’re probably that you understand what consulting’s about;
What are the benefits? or you might get involved in client work with using your internship to help you decide if the highs and lows of the role, and the
If you want to bag a graduate role, the chances responsibilities such as analysing data, doing consulting is the right career for you, and it’s challenges you’ll face.
are that you will need to have completed some research or making presentations. fine to say that this is the case. But you will be
kind of professional work experience. As a expected to have a reasonable understanding Before an internship
graduate recruiter for a consulting firm, I read Whatever task you’re asked to turn your of the role of a consultant and to have done You’ll often secure your internship months in
1,000s of applications and this is something hand to, whether admin based or an exciting your research on the organisation you’ve advance, which gives you lots of time to prepare.
I look for when screening CVs. If a candidate client-facing task which really tests you, make applied to. Avoid giving the impression that It’s a good idea to keep up to date with the
doesn’t have work experience, it would be rare sure you approach everything with equal you’re just ‘giving it a go’ without much organisation you’re joining by following them
for them to make the shortlist for a graduate enthusiasm. Proving you can you do simple thought into whether it’s right for you. on social media, or you could set up a Google
role. Not having work experience will really tasks will often lead to greater responsibility. alert so you’re aware of any developments in
limit how effective your answers will be in a Most firms will give advice about what the news. Building your commercial awareness
graduate interview; involvement in societies When to start looking they’re looking for in applications on their by reading journals and newspapers like The
and paid work in bars/restaurants etc. can Some large organisations offer work careers pages; make sure you read this. We Economist and The Financial Times and following
only take you so far. If you don’t know what placements for first years but most will offer recommend that you only apply for one role consultant blogs can also be useful. Make sure
career you’re interested in, work experience opportunities for those in their penultimate at a time, but significant numbers ignore this you also brush up your PowerPoint and Excel
will help you to figure this out, even if it means year. These roles will usually be advertised advice and submit multiple applications; these skills, as you’ll be able to be more effective if you
you’re just discounting what you don’t want from August/September and will often be applications aren’t usually successful. are proficient/advanced in both of these.
to do. It also means you’ll have been through filled by December, so it’s worth doing your
an assessment process and will have learned research in your first year and being ready to The best applications are those which show Make the most of the internship
valuable lessons which you can put to good go with your applications at the start of your some research into the role and organisation, We use our internships to find our future talent
use in your interviews for a graduate role. penultimate year. The Deadlines Calendar at are well written and have been proofread; don’t and if an intern impresses us we fast track them
www.insidecareers.co.uk is a useful tool to see be one of the many who are rejected because through our graduate recruitment process.
What typical duties do interns carry out? when recruiters close their applications. you haven’t updated your cover letter and have Switching from student mode to a professional
As a consultant, the tasks, team size, project referred to the company with the wrong name! environment can be hard but it’s an important
length and location all vary considerably from Deciding where to apply adjustment to try to make if you want to
one project to another, so it’s always difficult to There’s a huge amount of information out there Relevant work experience turn the internship into a graduate role.
give specific details about what you’ll be doing to help you to decide where to apply. Careers Don’t panic if you want to get into consulting Professionalism involves meeting deadlines,
– it will depend on what projects are going fairs, graduate websites and publications but haven’t done work experience with a showing enthusiasm, using your initiative,
on at the time of your internship. You might and employer events are all useful sources consulting firm. Your work experience doesn’t asking for feedback (and taking it on board)
find yourself working on an internal project, of information. Make sure you avoid the necessarily have to be with the same kind of and networking with your colleagues. You
organisation, or even in the same industry, might find it challenging at first but don’t give
as the graduate role you ultimately apply for. up; even if it isn’t the right role for you there
What work experience shows a recruiter is that might be another part of the organisation
you’re making an effort to figure out what that you’re better suited to. Don’t be afraid
kind of career interests you. I like speaking to reach out to people to find out about their
to candidates who can talk me through background and about the role they do. 
how they’ve discovered that a career as a
consultant is right for them after discounting Amelia Scott is the graduate recruitment manager at
other options. For instance, the financial sector PA Consulting, an employee-owned firm specialising
offers a huge number of internships and a lot in management and IT consulting, technology and
of candidates will have done some kind of innovation. PA recruits summer interns, industrial
banking internship. At interview you’ll be able placement students and graduates. For more
to say, ‘I enjoyed my internship at [ ]; I really information and advice check out
built on my understanding of the commercial http://graduates.paconsulting.com/uk/

INTERNSHIP PROFILES
SUMMER ASSOCIATE
BCG
office Fridays every month, where you get
to hear about other projects and get a free
HELEN WEST lunch! Fridays usually ended with the option Overall, I had a fantastic eight
of heading to drinks at a nearby pub. Social
UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE
“
I learnt a lot events were a major feature of the internship weeks; the work was really
BA NATURAL SCIENCES
very quickly, so
programme (and continue to be as a full-time interesting, the people were
Associate). There was a welcome dinner in the
SUMMER INTERNSHIP
you need no deep first week, followed by a day trip on Saturday great and I had a lot of fun.
sailing to the Isle of Wight and a dinner
prior experience.
” and night out. Practice Area breakfasts held
throughout the internship gave great insight
into the variety of projects BCG offers, as well Overall, I had a fantastic eight weeks; the work
as the opportunity to meet a range of Project was really interesting, the people were great
Leaders and Partners. There were also dedicated and I had a lot of fun – since joining full-time,
intern dinners or social events every week! I’m happy to say that this has continued! 
My first week at BCG was spent meeting ‘module’. This is a section of work that you are
the other interns and familiarising myself responsible for and drive to complete. I spent
with the office. There were three full days the next seven weeks developing and working
of training, including the exciting part of on my specific module, with daily input from the For the latest internships:
getting your own laptop and iPhone. We had Consultant and Principal. I was surprised at how www.insidecareers.co.uk/jobs
useful introductions to Excel and PowerPoint much responsibility I was given and how much
(including some incredible time-saving of my work was shown to clients.
macros), information sources and what is
expected of a Summer Associate. The majority of my work was in PowerPoint
– creating impactful slides to get our story
Half a day was dedicated to a practice case across, alongside pieces of analysis in Excel. I
in small teams, which was great as it showed learnt a lot very quickly, so you need no deep
a compact view of how a case is run from prior experience. I attended weekly ‘Case
hypotheses, to analysis, to content production Team Meetings’ where we would present our
and client presentation. We were taken out to modules to other team members including
lunch by our ‘buddy’ – an Associate who had the Partner. This was a great opportunity to
been at BCG for about six months. It was really get senior input. We had regular, almost daily,
handy to have someone who you could ask meetings with senior members from the client
anything! All interns were allocated a village – to gather input and expertise, which I regularly
you sit in shared office space in groups of 6-8 attended and participated in.
BCGers of mixed seniority who aren’t based
on your case so you can get to know a larger
group of people. We then found out about
our cases – the highlight of the week! We were I was surprised at how much
placed on a variety of projects, and had two responsibility I was given and
days to get up to speed in the office before
going to client sites the following week. how much of my work was
shown to clients.
On Monday morning, the first week of my
case, I was at the client site by 8:30 and left
the office about 19:00 (but typical days vary
hugely depending on the project). First I was On Fridays, we returned to our desks in our
introduced to the case, spent time reading village, continued case work and caught up
background material and was allocated my own with people back in the office. There are

INTERNSHIP PROFILES
SUMMER STUDENT
HYMANS ROBERTSON
What were your main duties?
“I was keen to be
The first few days of the internship consisted
AMY WALKER entirely of training. We were shown everything Find events and insight days:
we needed to know, from how to work the www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW involved in a role computer systems to carrying out calculations
BSc FINANCE AND STATISTICS where I would use that would become part of our day to day
work. It was an intense few days but only made What were the most important things you
SUMMER INTERNSHIP both my technical me more excited to get an insight into the learned from the internship?
and personal skills – fast-paced life of a consultant. One of the most important things I learned
was to ask for feedback. There were times
actuarial consultancy The flow of work started relatively soon after when I could have done a job more efficiently
seemed to fit this. and within a few weeks I felt the work I was or effectively and getting feedback was a
” doing was actually of real value to my team.
I was involved with a generous amount of
great way of improving my skills and showing
enthusiasm for the job at hand.
client work that involved emailing and even
phoning clients, as well as other project work. I also learned that it’s important to take any
Deciding to apply for a week-long work After the telephone interview came the My fellow colleagues really went out of their opportunity that is given to you, even if you
experience programme with a consultancy assessment centre which involved a solo way to give me a great variety of work. It was are reluctant at first. I learned from each
firm when I was still at school seemed like a interview, a group exercise and several tests. exciting to be able to work with a whole host challenge that came my way and showed
leap into the unknown – I thrived on talking of people from across the firm and gain their others that I was capable of taking on more
to and helping people, I was good at maths My advice would be to: perspectives on different pension issues, from responsibility, consequently opening paths for
and I liked the sound of working in finance, so • Think about how your experiences align junior to more senior members. other new opportunities.
I joined the dots and that’s how (long-story with what the company values are – even
short!) I found Hymans Robertson. the trivial experiences that you think By the end of my placement, I had improved
might not be worth mentioning. Do your research on the both my commercial awareness and problem
Why did you choose to do an internship? • Be yourself and don’t compare yourself to solving skills and was able to apply them in real
I went on to study Finance and Statistics at the other candidates – the company will company and read up on some business situations. I went back to university
university and on starting my penultimate year be looking to employ a range of people current issues surrounding for my final year with an enthusiasm for
I was already on the lookout for an internship. with diverse skills and personalities. pursing a consulting career at Hymans.
I was keen to be involved in a role where I • The tests will be timed so don’t panic – the area of business they are
would use both my technical and interpersonal it’s sometimes better to answer fewer involved in as you will be asked Any advice for anyone seeking an internship?
skills – actuarial consultancy seemed to fit questions and do them correctly than • Do your research on a company before
this. I had already been introduced to Hymans rushing through the whole paper. questions on this. applying for any positions and make sure
through their work experience programme and • Network during the lunch hour – it gives it is somewhere you can see yourself
knew that their office had such a friendly and an opportunity for other junior and working. It is far better to spend a lot of
supportive atmosphere, so the internship they senior members of the firm to have an In addition to this, each of the interns was time applying for a few companies than
offered seemed like the perfect opportunity. understanding of you and it could work given a project to work on and we would not putting the effort into the applications
Not only that, but experience from an in your favour. present our results at the end of the eight for lots of companies.
internship would be a great foot-in-the-door • Do your research on the company week placement. This seemed like a daunting • Go to recruitment fairs/employer events
for future graduate positions, no matter what and read up on some current issues thought at first, but as the weeks went on I early in your university career. You can get a
career path I decided to pursue. surrounding the area of business they grew more confident and was able to present feel for the company and ask any questions
are involved with as you will be asked without much hesitancy. you want here. It may even be possible to
What was the application process like – questions on this. go to an insight day at the company or
any advice? It was easy to see that people at Hymans were even shadow a member of staff if you aren’t
The process wasn’t as daunting as I expected – Overall, the process was very organised and very passionate about the work that they were yet in your penultimate year.
Hymans did a great job at putting me at ease efficient. Even once my offer came through, the doing and truly wanted to deliver a great • If you don’t have any consulting experience,
and keeping me in the loop from the very start. HR department made a real effort to keep in quality service to their clients. The work is don’t panic. Even volunteering in your local
Once my initial application had been accepted, touch. Before starting, all of the interns were challenging and at times you are required to community or getting a part-time job will
I had a telephone interview to discuss my invited to lunch to meet each other which work longer hours, but this will ultimately allow help to show employers you have the skills
application in further detail. really helped to ease our nerves. you to reach your full potential. that they are looking for. 

INTERNSHIP PROFILES
SUMMER ASSOCIATE
L.E.K. CONSULTING
internship. As an L.E.K. Summer Associate every aspect of the role that came with it. My
you are supported with an initial orientation ignorance remedied, I was able to make a career
JAMES BENNINGTON programme, you then participate as a full decision based on the knowledge that I would
member of the case team. My responsibilities be happy doing the job that I was choosing.
“My responsibilities
UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD were essentially the same as what I now do as
HISTORY a full-time associate. I carried out secondary
SUMMER INTERNSHIP were essentially the research, analysed the information and
There is an infinite amount
structured the output into slides that were
same as what I now do incorporated into the final presentation. of advice online about how
as a full-time associate.
” Obviously, I got a lot of support throughout
the internship. The L.E.K. office is completely
to approach the cases, but
applying that information is
open-plan, and everyone sits in ‘pods’ of up to
eight. This structure is designed to make it easy something that only comes
for individuals to cooperate and easily reach with practice.
out to those around them for assistance. Those
Why did you choose to do an internship? by the interviewers themselves going out of sat around me were certainly happy to respond
There isn’t a huge amount of career their way to be friendly and reassuring, and the to my frequent pleas for help. Additionally,
information available for first and second year day itself being as painless as it could be. each intern is paired with a buddy, for help In this spirit, L.E.K. also pairs its interns with a
students. I didn’t know what different jobs with everyday responsibilities. mentor, who is at hand throughout the eight
involved and I was anxious to be employed My advice for the process would be to devote weeks for the more profound conversations
after I finished university. as much time to preparation as possible. This What were the most important things you about future career and life plans. I was able
is easier said than done when you have a full learned from the internship? to discuss with my mentor the concerns I
Internships were an ideal solution to both work schedule at university and are applying The internship was a brilliant guide to the had about a full-time position, the areas of
problems. I could experience the job for myself to several other companies at the same time. I realities of working as a consultant, and from the role I had found more challenging, and
and decide whether I really enjoyed it. There would highlight three areas to focus on: it I learned that consulting was what I wanted what life after consulting, though some years
were limits to the insights available from 1. Make sure you are not producing to do after university. I appreciated the level of away, might hold. This was one of the best
company websites and an internship seemed a generic CV and cover letter for responsibility I was given and the exposure to features of the internship. 
to be the best check for whether I wanted to applications. This is very easy for
do the job as a graduate. At the same time, an recruiters to spot and it does not take
internship offered the prospect of giving me an much time to look at company’s website
edge in finding a full-time job. and pick out the details that actually
matter to you.
2. Practice for the numeracy test. I did a
history degree, so I did not spend much
More intern profiles online: time doing any kind of maths after A
www.insidecareers.co.uk/man levels. Practising basic numeracy to
become fast and accurate transformed the
numeracy test from a potential problem
into a positive for my application.
What was the application process like – 3. Find some time to do mock case
any advice? interviews and someone who will do them
The application process was challenging, with you. There is an infinite amount of
especially so as I hadn’t been through it before. advice online about how to approach the
I think the format is more or less the same for cases, but applying that information is
all of the leading consulting internships. something that only comes with practice.
The interviews are obviously intense, and What were your main duties?
everyone waiting for one is visibly nervous. I was surprised by the degree of responsibility
However, I remember being pleasantly surprised handed to me from the outset of the

GRADUATE PROFILES
JUNIOR CONSULTANT
ALFA
being challenged in diverse and interesting new people and I’ve been very impressed
LOUISE MEREDITH ways. If there is a bug, my problem solving with how friendly everyone is, regardless of
UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
“It was rewarding skills need to come into play to figure out the
best way to get around it.
seniority. Considering how recently I joined
the company, I think it’s fantastic that there is
to be making a nobody at Alfa who I wouldn’t feel comfortable
BIOCHEMISTRY The most exciting part of my new role is that I approaching with a problem, or just for a chat.
real contribution travel to the main client office in Scandinavia
LONDON AND SCANDINAVIA
to the company at every fortnight or so. When I am there, I
interact directly with client individuals, putting
such an early stage my consulting skills into practice. Sitting The latest graduate jobs:
of my career. in a room with the people who are testing www.insidecareers.co.uk/jobs
” our software is valuable as it allows me to
experience the impact of our work first-hand.
Team building The team-building activities that are put on for

Alfa places a large emphasis on the wellbeing us are great. I was recently taken skiing in Austria
of its employees and on maintaining a for four days with all the present and past
It has been less than five months since I started steep; however, I was encouraged to learn
healthy work/life balance. It is reflected in members of my client team and in the summer
at Alfa with no coding experience and already at my own pace and the level of support I
the hours I work, which have very rarely we’re heading to Barcelona for a Company
I’ve built a decent understanding of how to received was fantastic. It was rewarding to be
exceeded 9-6, and also in the company Conference involving more fun and sun.
code in Java and I am commuting regularly making a real contribution to the company at
culture, which focuses on teamwork and
to work with our client at a Scandinavian such an early stage of my career.
maintaining strong working relationships. Any suggestions and ideas for initiatives are
bank. The opportunity to travel and take on
encouraged and taken on board, so I really feel
responsibility early on in my career was one of After the training was complete I was placed
a valued member of the company.
the things that drew me to Alfa, and I certainly immediately on a client team. Although the
haven’t been let down. official training was over, I have continued to I’m constantly exposed to new Personal development opportunities
learn every day and receive guidance on the
The training job. The programme is designed so that the
areas of the software, both I have already had two personal development
reviews, in which I discussed my progress with
My official training period lasted three months. transition into the company is a smooth one, functionally and technically, and my manager and we laid out goals for my
This comprised a one-month induction period and I know that whatever my task there will
which introduced me to Alfa (the company), always be people happy to help in all areas
I’m therefore being challenged future at the company. My managers have been
responsive to my requests, accommodating
to Alfa Systems (our software product), and of the business. in diverse and interesting ways. my wishes wherever possible; for example, by
to the basics of Java (my intake was for
providing me with more developmental coding
graduates with little or no previous coding Working on a client team
work on top of bug-fixing.
experience). The sessions were given by The project team I am a part of is dedicated
Every financial quarter, a Company Meeting
colleagues at all levels, from junior consultant to a large Scandinavian bank, and I work
is organised for all UK employees. After a This investment of time into my future,
through to senior executive, and so many specifically as part of the User Acceptance
morning of interesting talks and updates together with the flexibility of my career path,
people came and introduced themselves to Testing (UAT) team. Our job is primarily to
on the progress of different teams, the rest is excellent as it means I’ll never be stuck doing
me that remembering names became one of work together with the client answering
of the day is dedicated to fun activities; for something that’s not right for me. And if I spot
my biggest challenges! This openness and the their questions, ensuring they know how
example, most recently playing crazy golf at a any opportunities I want to make the most of,
sociable atmosphere instantly made me feel to use the software, and fixing any bugs
bar. These meetings are a great way to meet it’s down to me to push for them. 
comfortable in the office environment. (glitches) they encounter. This gives me a nice
balance of coding and increasing my product
After the induction period, there was the knowledge. I really like this role, because
Development Initiation phase. This involved each time a question is asked there is some
sitting with a supervisor and working on real detective work involved to discover if there’s
problems in the Alfa Systems codebase. Being a bug, or if the client is experiencing the
given the responsibility of changing and system’s expected behaviour. I’m constantly
adding code to the software so early on was exposed to new areas of the software, both
initially daunting and the learning curve was functionally and technically, and I’m therefore

GRADUATE PROFILES
ASSOCIATE CONSULTANT
BAIN & COMPANY
Lastly, the focus on professional development and then gathering it through various
SHAZIA MOHAMED “The work we do at Bain is something that really appealed
to me. This comprises of both the formal
means such as speaking to clients,
primary/secondary research, carrying out
LSE ultimately shapes structures and training as well as the informal
support provided. When you start at Bain, you
expert interviews etc. As the associate
consultant, you will be the closest to the
ECONOMICS an industry’s future are given both a buddy and mentor who are data and become the ‘expert’ – the data you
LONDON landscape and the your main support system and provide all the
advice and guidance you want. As you begin
are able to find ultimately cracks the case
and so it is an important role to have.
potential to do working on projects, you build up a network of
that gets me out of informal mentors either through the people on
your projects, your peer group or those who
DEVELOPING THE ANSWER
The work we do is hypothesis driven so, with
bed everyday. sit around you! Everyone is so willing to lend my consultant, I will spend time developing an
” a hand if you have a question or need some
advice, you just need to ask!
‘answer first’ of what I think the outcome of the
analysis will be. This helps keep me focused
on proving/disproving the hypothesis with my
With regards to training, there is both the analysis rather than getting lost in the detail or
formal training (with two weeks local training spending time on pieces of the data that are
I’m an Associate Consultant at Bain having out what is going wrong at the heart of a
in London, an amazing ten day global training not critical to the outcome.
joined the London office in October 2014 as business and fix it – basically like a doctor for
session in North America and ongoing training
a graduate. I couldn’t have asked for a better businesses! Due to the high profile nature of
sessions throughout the year) as well as the PREPARING CLIENT PRESENTATIONS
place to begin my career, with Bain’s focus our clients, the work we do ultimately shapes
informal on-the-job coaching, which in my As important as it is to get the analysis
on professional development, diverse client an industry’s future landscape and the potential
opinion is the most important. The team you correct, a large part of our job is to ensure
base and drive for results. Since joining, I have to do that gets me out of bed every day.
work with will be dedicated to ensuring you we can communicate the findings to our
worked across a range of industries solving
get the experience, exposure and support clients. To do this, I will spend time preparing
varied business problems; from working Bain has been a great place to begin my career,
you need as you progress. I receive weekly impactful presentations to be used for
closely with the CEO of a major beer and specifically thanks to the client results focus,
feedback to ensure I always know how I am meetings, tailored to the audience.
spirits company on the best way to design the various flexibility options available and the
doing in terms of performance and where I
their organisation to support their strategy, dedication to professional development. The
should be focusing in order to keep improving. TEAM EVENTS/PROFESSIONAL
to helping a company redefine their strategy work carried out by Bain is guided by their True
DEVELOPMENT/EXTRA 10%
under new regulation in the payments industry. North principles: working as one team with a
What do you wish you’d known throughout Along with the usual team catch ups and
commitment to aligning with clients to produce
the application and interview process? weekly case team meetings you will have,
What did you study? unprecedented results with measurable impact.
The application process is as much a process to Bain has a culture of encouraging case
I studied Economics at LSE, but what you Throughout my time at Bain, I have seen these
help you choose your employer as it is for the team events i.e. fun activities the team does
have studied isn’t important. One of the great principles in action – every piece of work I
companies to choose you – it is your chance to together outside of case work to have fun
things about Bain is that everyone comes from have done has contributed to results for the
get to know people at each firm. together and build team spirit. In the past,
different backgrounds. Bain hires exceptional client. The exposure I have received with the
I have been go-karting, played football and
graduates and postgraduates from any degree clients has also been amazing, for example, I
What is a typical day like? eaten delicious meals. You will also spend
discipline or university. Some of my closest was given the opportunity to present a model
One of the things that makes my job so some time on professional development
peers studied English Literature at Warwick to the CFO of a major payments company less
exciting and interesting is how varied my through weekly meetings with your
and History at Trinity College. The training than a year into my career.
role is. The way I spend my time can be split consultant or training sessions.
and coaching at Bain provides all the skills and
broadly into four areas of responsibility:
support needed to excel as a consultant. I was also attracted to the flexibility options
• Carrying out research/data collection Lastly, you may also join the various extra
at Bain, due to its global presence. Whether
• Developing the answer 10% initiatives at Bain e.g. Bain Social
Why did you choose consulting and Bain? it be experiencing another industry through
• Preparing client presentations Impact, Recruiting, the Green Team. I have
I think the most attractive aspect of the job an externship, learning more at business
• Team events/professional development/ chosen to be involved with supporting our
for me is the diversity of the career – in terms school or taking some time out to set up your
’extra 10%’ initiatives. recruiting activities and am also part of the
of the industries you work in, the people you own business, Bain caters to your needs and
Bain Social Impact committee overseeing
interact with and the actual work you do. I empowers you to reach your career goals. It is
CARRYING OUT RESEARCH/DATA COLLECTION all the education initiatives (mentoring,
was also drawn to the fact I could really have also easy to tap into the Bain alumni network,
This consists of working out what data is tutoring etc.), which I find to be a very
an impact in the work I do. Consultants find with information sessions and events.
needed (usually with the help of my team) rewarding use of time. 

GRADUATE PROFILES
CONSULTANT
SYSDOC
What is the working environment like? atmosphere. I can have the same conversation
MATT SMITH Anyone who has spent some time with Kiwis with the CEO as I can have with my manager,
(without being too clichéd) knows that we work and she will always stop to have a chat when
UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND “At 23 years old, the hard and play harder. Sysdoc embodies this
mentality with an environment that promotes
she sees people in the office.
BCOM ACCOUNTING AND progression in my cutting the ‘faff’ and political minefields As all management consultants know, it is
to achieve high quality outcomes with our impossible to explain (in less than 30 minutes)
FINANCE career has been faster clients. Working with teams who both function what you ‘do’. Having so many great dedicated
LONDON
and better than I could effectively and regularly head to the local for people around you to share successes and
after work drinks is an absolute pleasure. overcome challenges (as well as the occasional
have hoped for. ‘gossip’ session) is an indescribable boon.
”” My time working as a consultant What’s been the most challenging moment
working as a consultant so far, and how did
has shown that you can receive you overcome it?
Six months into my time as a consultant, I was
as much or as little support with working on a project where we had to develop
Tell us a little about yourself two months and I was on a plane to the UK
Lucky enough to be born and raised in New to start my new life and work at Sysdoc. It
development as you want. If 300 or so documents. In two languages.
Zealand, my childhood was filled with beaches was one of those frighteningly gigantic life you show interest and put the Three weeks away from the deadline, we lost
and BBQs. A lot of people ask me why I would decisions to make, but it was an opportunity
want to leave sunny NZ for cloudy UK, and the that was too good to pass up.
effort in, the long-term rewards a significant resource and had no chance of
hitting the target without additional support.
straightforward answer is that there is more are substantial. I spoke to the Operations Manager on a
to do. Compare an isolated country with a Being a company that started life in New
Friday morning, and the following Monday
4.5 million population to a country with 64 Zealand, I knew that Sysdoc would have a
I was responsible for upskilling and leading
million and a comparative stone’s throw away fantastic culture. I was also already familiar
Successes are celebrated and mistakes are four new staff members to support hitting the
from mainland Europe; I can’t think of a better with some of the management team and
learning opportunities. If you need help deadline. Three weeks and a working weekend
place to live in your 20’s. knew the ethos of the company would match
you need only ask; and despite my at times later, we were successful.
their values. The significant development
oblivious attempts to prove the opposite, there
opportunities were clear going in, and this has
is definitely no such thing as a stupid question! This demonstrated the level of teamwork
proved to be completely true.
Successes are celebrated You will regularly be thrown in the deep end, and dedication that I have enjoyed being a
but you’ll never sink on your own. part of since I became a consultant. It also
and mistakes are learning How has your progression been encouraged?
showed how a management team willing to
My time working as a consultant has shown
opportunities. that you can receive as much or as little
What is working in the consultancy provide opportunities to their consultants
profession like? to take responsibility and to support the
support with development as you want. If you
The company I work for has an extremely achievement of objectives is vital if a
show interest and put the effort in, the
flat organisation structure. It is easy to avoid company is to operate successfully. 
I emigrated to the UK to join Sysdoc in January long-term rewards are substantial. At 23 years
political dramas and there is a pleasant work
2015, shortly after graduating from the old, the progression in my career has been
University of Auckland. Since being here, I have faster and better than I could have hoped for.
engrossed myself in the bustle of London and
the marvels of Europe. More recently, I have The management team in Sysdoc want to see
become involved in the Young Management young consultants succeed. To paraphrase
Consulting Association and am fortunate the Head of Consulting, ‘developing people
enough to sit on the Young MCA council. is all about looking over your shoulder,
and supporting them to run past you’. This
What attracted you to a graduate role is a mentality that I have observed across
at Sysdoc? all of the Development Managers who
My working life started at a bank in New spend countless hours of their own time on
Zealand in November 2014. Fast forward developing our graduate consultants.

GRADUATE PROFILES
SENIOR CYBER SECURITY CONSULTANT

THALES CYBER AND CONSULTING
posed, and we continuously and proactively have consultants who do both. As a
ALEXANDER NEWMAN “I often find look for innovative solutions across the
security landscape. As the Assessment Lead,
graduate seeking a role in this industry
it is vital that you can actually meet the
DE MONTFORT UNIVERSITY it difficult to I not only have to determine these technical
challenges and articulate these problems to
deliverables of the project you are working
on when you say it is possible. Therefore,
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, determine the line my team, ensuring our response meets the you must also have the self-awareness to
SECURITY AND COMPUTING between work and requirement, but I must also scan the horizon
for upcoming technical innovations and
know what you cannot do and be willing
to acknowledge your limits.
READING/FARNBOROUGH home, I think of it threats, proactively prototyping solutions. • Motivations – it is important to love
as getting paid to I also assist Thales Research and Technology,
what you do. As an example I often find
it difficult to determine the line between
do my hobby.
”
Artificial Intelligence graduates to derive work and home, I think of it as getting
innovations that combine my expertise in paid to do my hobby. It is also great to
cyber security with their bespoke knowledge work with people who share the passion
to produce innovations that are applicable I have for technology, and when you’re
to our Security Operations Centre and wider surrounded by like-minded people your
business. Recently I have shifted the focus of performance and skills will also develop.
I completed a government higher technical While attending the Farnborough International
these collaborative innovations to our CNI
apprenticeship while studying for a foundation Airshow as a technology enthusiast I stumbled
and Automotive customers. Do you have any advice for anyone wanting
degree in science (Communications Systems, across the Watchkeeper Unmanned Air System
to get into the industry?
Security and Computing), graduating from De (UAS). Lured into the rather flashy Thales
As a consultant, it is also important to • Apprenticeships and internships; there
Montfort University. Since the very start of my stand hoping for a simulator to play with
circulate within the internal Thales teams. is a known skills gap between graduates
career I have had a unique perspective into (which there was), I met a now colleague from
Often my customer’s challenges need to who have just focused on academia
the vital work performed by organisations that Cyber and Consulting who quickly worked
be solved with more than just a technical and the professional ‘corporate’ skills
maintain the UK’s national security and prevent out my background. After a short technical
solution, so staying clued up on the activities required by industry to put you in front
and detect serious and organised crime. I conversation I was impressed at the diverse
of the Training, Human Factor, Business of a customer. The only way to address
moved to the private sector to accelerate range of projects the team were working
Analysis & Change and wider community this and make your application stand
my career progression and have since been on, everything from banking to securing
enables me to provide holistic solutions. This out is to fill that gap, either by taking the
exposed to technical challenges that are not automotive platforms. This met my aspirations
prevents me from taking a narrow approach initiative to gain those skills by taking
just limited to the government. to diversify my career and experiences so I
and forces me to remain innovative; it’s also a every opportunity given to you by your
submitted my CV, and after a normal interview
basic consultant skill to cross sell colleagues university (I would attend leadership
From what I have learnt so far, it is impossible process I joined the technical team.
for the betterment of the organisation. courses and lead societies), and/or
to know everything in cyber security. The best
actively seek the first step on the career
consultants are those who are willing and able to
What skills are useful in this profession? ladder through opportunities such as
adapt and innovate at the speed of technology.
Unlike other industries where • Adaptability – unlike other industries apprenticeships and internships. An
where your skills can be applicable for employer finds it easier (and cheaper)
How did you get your job at Thales Cyber your skills can be applicable for a decade, you need to align your skill to bring an apprentice/intern into the
and Consulting?
My slightly abnormal career path was the main a decade, you need to align your set to the fast changing environment consultancy as an analyst rather than seek
around you. It is important to have the an external applicant.
facilitator in securing my current role. As an skill set to the fast changing specialism that you’re known for while • Where possible attend industry related
apprentice at the cutting edge of technology,
I had the demonstrable experience of delivery environment around you. also being willing to self-teach new events; meeting you in person and just
professional competencies. discussing ‘all things cyber’ is the best
in a variety of technical disciplines, meeting the
• Confidence/professionalism – it seems way to be remembered and sought-
challenges of the current threat landscape and
like an obvious skill for a consultant but after. It will also give you an idea of what
not constrained within an academic syllabus. What are your main duties/roles?
you need to be a strong relationship opportunities there are in the industry.
Equally important was my foundation degree. My current full-time role is the Assessment
builder. Eventually you will be asked for Everyone knows the big corporate names
Yes, it does not make me as distinguished as Lead/Liaison for a consortium of the best
by name and not just supplied as a CV. but is there a smaller organisation or
an individual with a higher qualification but it and brightest in the security industry. This
• Technical ability – there are salespeople start-up you could apply for to bridge
does consolidate my ability to interpret findings, consortium of security experts is focused on
who can ‘talk the talk’ and there are your experience gap? Especially over
perform an investigation and report on findings. delivering the best solution to any problem
grafters who can deliver, and then you those long student holidays! 

SENIOR PROFILES
SENIOR CONSULTANT
EGREMONT GROUP
Sherna joined Egremont Group in 2011 and is now a Senior Consultant specialising leadership teams to become ‘change agents’ and them’ mentality of consultants and clients.
in people-centered business transformation. She is responsible for running within the business who in turn would train all We embed ourselves within our client teams,
retail team members within the business right working closely with team members so they own
performance improvement programmes in large multi-located organisations and
through to frontline shop floor workers. I ran the solution and it can be sustained when we are
has experience in the retail, leisure, utilities and financial services sectors. Her recent problem solving workshops to co-create the no longer there. It is important to me to know
projects have taken her to Europe, Australia and the US. solutions needed and in any one week I would that as well as doing an excellent job while on
personally develop the capability of hundreds site we leave each client with the skills they need
of people across numerous cities. to carry on that work after we have left.
SHERNA BHADRESA I’m a Senior Consultant at Egremont Group based in London. I

joined as a Business Analyst in 2011 following the completion We had to ensure that all client team members What would you like to achieve in the future?
of my degree in Economics from Durham University and over had the capabilities and skills they needed As the working world becomes ever more
the past six years I have worked across the world leading to drive the changes needed in the business. virtual and separate, all companies face the
and supporting people-centred business transformation For such a large business, this meant reaching challenge of harnessing the talent of their
programmes. Now a Senior Consultant, I am responsible for out to all staff and training them to the same virtual teams. My experience working with a
running workstreams on large scale programmes, most recently level as their counterparts across the country, leading online retailer in San Francisco gave
for Walgreens and Snapfish in the US. I am currently working on developing shared goals and targets. Working me a unique insight into the importance of
a European Airport Security project. with them daily, continually developing and the virtual team, with a network of essential
coaching them and then seeing them lead the employees spread across the world from India,
Why did you choose a career in the industry? transformation and deliver results has been a Australia and Europe, all reporting in to the
9-5 office jobs have never appealed to me so I applied for highlight of my career so far. US. I am keen to explore how we can build and
2015 develop team working in this environment.
Egremont Group’s assessment centre during the final term
of university and I haven’t looked back. Egremont Group While technology is being developed all the
offered the perfect cultural fit, great training and a wide client time that can help overcome many of the
Promoted to Senior Consultant base which I could get stuck into from the start. Starting as
Choose a firm that is the problems, not enough work is being done to
at Egremont Group a Business Analyst I learnt the core skills of evaluating and best cultural fit for you, it is a understand how we use technology and time
diagnosing the problems within an organisation early on. Only effectively. I’d love to explore the best way of
once you have this information can you begin to formulate a
people business and it starts building effective teams with a good leadership
2013 successful plan for change. Moving on to become a Consultant with the people you work with. structure and better use of technology – it’s a
in 2013, I began to own client relationships and co-create common challenge but few have cracked it.
solutions, running problem solving workshops across the
business up to Board level. At Egremont Group we transform Finally, here are my top tips for anyone
Promoted to Consultant at large multi-located organisations, the work is complex and What do you enjoy most about your job? wanting to get into the industry:
Egremont Group
always challenging but ultimately the work we do is all about The variety and high energy nature of the work I • Be energetic and don’t be afraid to
people. As a Senior Consultant it is my role to understand and do is the best part about it. In the last three years be ambitious.
explore how they work together, whether they understand I have worked in San Francisco, Chicago, Detroit, • Seek out challenges and use them as
2011 and share common goals and finally to develop solutions for Denver, Phoenix, Melbourne, Ireland and the a chance to learn and deepen your
creating better ways of working which will make the business UK! As a management consultant I know I am in personal experience.
succeed. It is this focus on helping people realise their potential a privileged position, analysing and diagnosing • Say yes to travel and working in other
that drives me in my career. the root causes of problems within a business countries and industries – take yourself
Started working at Egremont and then working with the client team to find the out of your comfort zone.
Group as a Business Analyst
What is a typical day like for you? best solution. I enjoy this problem solving aspect • Choose a firm that is the best cultural
I always need to have a bag packed and my passport in my of my role and the need to think on my feet. fit for you, it is a people business and it
pocket! While working in the US I was based in Denver and Working with team members who have carried starts with the people you work with.
2011 out their job the same way for many years and • Make sure your employer will help you to
responsible for approximately 300 stores in the Colorado
area. Working in a team of 16 consultants, I led the roll out of then redefining their established practices is develop professionally and understands
a nationwide retail store transformation programme driving always going to be challenging. Getting to your need for personal development.
Graduated from Durham know them and working collaboratively to build • Trust your own moral compass and look for
University with a BA (Hons) in business performance improvement (sales and margin up,
Economics cost down) across the region. This comprehensive leadership solutions together is the best way to guarantee a firm that does the best for the client, one
development programme involved coaching the regional success. Egremont Group are passionate about that continues to add value in all its work
collaborative working, doing away with the ‘us and stays only where it is needed. 

SENIOR PROFILES
SENIOR CONSULTANT
LCP CONSULTING,
A BEARINGPOINT COMPANY 2pm – run an internal team debrief after the opportunity – but that’s the fun. Thinking on
workshop; do we need to shift our focus, your feet and driving well-informed decisions
Daniel is a Senior Consultant at LCP Consulting, a specialist end-to-end supply chain who do we need to speak to to get more and actions is key; further down the line, seeing
consultancy. Daniel works with national and international retailers, manufacturers information and what do we need to do to change and improvement you’ve helped drive
and non-government organisations to develop their supply chain strategy and reach our next milestone? become reality is very rewarding.
improve their supply chain operations and execution. Daniel talks about what he 4pm – alone time spent checking the project
does, why he does it and shares some advice on how you can get involved. budget to see how we’re doing against target, LEARNING…QUICKLY
do we have some specialist expertise we need My favourite aspect of consulting is the sheer
Three years ago I was sat exactly where you are today, with to bring in for particular activities and how variety of organisations, ways of working,
DANIEL HARVEY a copy of this guide asking the same questions you are. might we mitigate any challenges we could processes and people I encounter. It is vast
Primarily, ‘is consulting for me?’. If you want a challenging face in our next client meeting? and diverse and I must very quickly be able
career with lots of exposure, the opportunity to develop a 6pm – head out for a beer with the team to to establish effective relationships (from
diverse range of skills and meet lots of new people, then yes – celebrate a client meeting which generated operational teams in a distribution centre to
consulting is for you. excitement and enthusiasm for the the Chief Financial Officer), understand how an
opportunities available and gave the team organisation works and identify opportunity in
I first came across consultants in my role as a Senior Supply the opportunity to present and deliver their line with their vision.
Chain Development Analyst at Morrisons. We engaged a work first-hand.
consultancy to help us improve our supply chain operations Do you have any advice for anyone wanting
and I was fascinated by what they did, how quickly they to get into the industry?
understood our business and how they worked with the • Create opportunity – are there any
2016 business at all levels to develop opportunities – that was If you want a challenging events at your university or current
Promoted to Senior Consultant

exciting, I wanted in. career with lots of exposure, organisation that you could attend
to learn more or meet people in the
Today, my role involves all manner of things and varies from day the opportunity to develop a consulting industry? Don’t be afraid to
2015 to day and from client to client. In summary, I do the following: diverse range of skills and meet reach out to people in your extended
network and seek guidance, information
• Delivering value to clients – from building a supply chain
Promoted to Consultant
model to assess different business options to presenting lots of new people, then yes – or introductions (alumni, friends of friends,
2014
back key insight from a vast pool of cross-business data and consulting is for you. family…). Be innovative and fresh in how
you approach these relationships; show
information, process workshops and stakeholder interviews.
Joined LCP Consulting as a • Building relationships – internal to LCP, with clients and you’re smart and have something to offer.
Consultant Analyst with the wider world. Primarily, making real connections • Get involved – many universities
with clients to deliver projects together in a sustainable What do you enjoy most about your job? have consulting societies which share
2013 and progressive way. DRIVING CHANGE AND PROGRESS information and offer opportunities to
• Managing projects – from defining to finishing a project As consultants there are many different ways learn core consulting skills.
After several graduate roles, and everything in between; what we’re going to do, how we can influence and drive change, some more • Do your research – what type of
promoted to Senior Supply Chain we’re going to do it and who’s going to do it. subtle than others. Client stakeholders will consultant do you want to be, what
Development Analyst often seek advice on who in their team could specialist skills does that consultant need?
What does a typical day in your current role look like? become an advocate for an upcoming change, If you don’t know what field you want to
2012 8am – arrive at the LCP office or client site and have a quick and how best to engage them. This can be very be in do some research on the different
Achieved a Distinction for catch up with the project team – review our upcoming difficult; many organisations have established entry schemes available, which ones give
Operations and Supply Chain milestones, assess whether we’re on track and check how we ways of working and creating a new normal is you the chance to explore?
Management MSc (University of are feeling. not always immediately welcome. • Be cognisant of your strengths –
Liverpool) and joined Morrisons 9am – work with the team to identify trends and understand the key skills consultants
as a Group Wide Graduate I also very much enjoy the more overt need and continue to develop your
opportunities in mountains of data and information shared by
2011 the client – finding something that’s going to put them on the opportunities to drive change and progress, strengths, identify where you could
edge of their seat. such as facilitating workshops. It is a real improve and work on both.
Graduated from the University 11am – over a working lunch, run a workshop with the client challenge getting multiple functional leaders • Read this guide cover to cover – this
of Liverpool with a 2:1 in leadership team looking at the new insight and brainstorming, in a room, with different remits and different guide gives a fantastic first insight into
Communication and performance measures and driving them to the world of consulting – if it sparks your
what it could mean, how we might investigate it further or what
Business Studies
the immediate changes are that we could make. a consensus on how to approach a particular interest, pursue it – good luck! 

SENIOR PROFILES
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
OEE CONSULTING
As a Principal Consultant at OEE Consulting, Helen has found the varied and essential to delivering a project on time, you
challenging career she always wanted and has been lucky enough to spend time have to be prepared to deviate from the plan,
and of course correct very effectively later. Go online for more profiles:
working in the UK, Europe and America. She explains what led her to her current
www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
position and highlights some of the challenges the industry is currently facing. What do you enjoy most about your job?
When you reflect on your time in a business,
there are always two key areas of satisfaction: the benefits of capitalising on technology,
1. The evolution of an environment from particularly to implement effective process
A globe-trotting problem solver; I have been fortunate enough the point you walk through the door improvements and communication modelling.
HELEN MESKELL to the day you leave. It is a different But designing their operation to optimise
to enjoy my career in the UK, Europe and America and meet so
many incredible people along the way. I have spanned retail, experience for everyone you meet, and is technology when yesterday’s advances are
finance and consulting, experiencing roles from leading people, extremely satisfying, particularly when you seemingly out of date today is a challenge,
to devising and delivering customer service strategies and support someone with an independent not to mention the ever-growing budgetary
implementing change on a varied scale. professional goal. challenges for IT spend.
2. Every assignment offers a different
Why did you choose a career in the industry? personal journey, creating new Furthermore, from a consultant’s perspective, it
I wanted a career which saw me work with varied people, development opportunities. This can is a challenge to keep abreast of all the moving
organisations and challenges and could take me anywhere range from learning about a new industry, parts of today’s technology sector growth
in the world. Above all, a role which offered me continuous to refining skills already in your toolkit, whilst preparing for tomorrow’s world.
professional development with opportunities to test and hone all the way through to overcoming a
2016 personal challenge. You carry these Do you have any advice for anyone wanting
new and existing skills. There is an element of mystery in
consulting, I cannot describe what I will be working on in the beneficial learnings into your next to get into the industry?
next six months or where that assignment may be, I find this assignment, continually building on your 1. Constructive engagement is key,
Promoted to Principal Consultant own personal growth. delivering a challenging message well
an exciting element of my job.
is an art, and not one that is perfected
What would you like to achieve in the future? overnight. Building and refining your
2015 I would love to be able to lead others in this
Every single day has new opportunities, environment, enhancing their capabilities and
communication skills is definitely a must.
2. Whilst not essential, it’s beneficial to have
Joined OEE Consulting as a
challenges and a brand new agenda enjoying their journey as much as my own. some experience and understanding
Senior Consultant so I have to adapt quickly to the needs What are the current challenges the
of the mechanics of operations. When
arriving on site, you have very little time to
and priorities that day, whilst ensuring industry faces? understand the business, it’s good to have
2012 Markets evolve at different rates, you have to
that I am focused on achieving the be a chameleon, expecting the unexpected.
the basic flow as a starting point, and the
business nuances just connect the dots.
Joined Lex Autolease as a
assignment objective. One day you can be implementing ‘the basics,’ 3. Learn to love the gym. A lifetime on the
and the next be designing the future. road, eating out or restaurant food most
Business Improvement Partner
evenings can play havoc with your clothes
What is a typical day like for you? The pace of change is particularly prevalent in size. Finding time to exercise a few times a
2007 Groundhog Day will never happen in consulting. the digital space and all industries are seeing week certainly keeps it in check though. 
Joined RBS as a Project It’s important to try and blend in with the client; I work to
Consultant, promoted to Service develop relationships as if I am a direct company colleague of the
Delivery Manger in 2010 business, so it can feel like having a new job every eight weeks.
2004 Every single day has new opportunities, challenges and a

brand new agenda so I have to be able to adapt quickly to
Graduated from the University the needs and priorities that day, whilst ensuring that I am
of Central Lancashire with a BA focused on achieving the assignment objective. Businesses
(Hons) in Law with Business just do not work to milestones and whilst having a plan is

THE INSTITUTE &
QUALIFICATIONS
About the Institute of Consulting 52
Professional Consultancy Qualifications 53
About the MCA 56
About the Young MCA 58
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANCY
OF CONSULTING QUALIFICATIONS
The Institute of Consulting (IC) is the professional body for Increasingly, people who buy consultancy are looking for assurances that the
management consultants and advisers, responsible for the consultants they employ are appropriately qualified and adhere to high ethical and
standards to which its members work. professional standards. This is done through professional qualifications, some of
which are outlined below.
The IC mission is to help develop and Joining the IC The IC offers a range of recognised Whatever stage you are at in your career and
represent consultants whose services increase Whether you’re a sole practitioner or employed qualifications for the business consulting whichever qualification you take you will:
business effectiveness. It is responsible for within a consultancy, membership of the profession that are awarded by the Chartered • Learn the most up to date tools,
setting professional standards of competence Institute gives you the tools to succeed. Far Management Institute. If you are looking to techniques and skills.
for members and supporting consultants more than just letters after your name, it’s move into the profession, gain independent • Increase your marketability with clients
through qualifications, awards and learning a comprehensive support system that stays validation of your skills or wish to consolidate and employers.
resources including its ConsultingDirect with you throughout your career. Benefits of and embed your existing skills whilst • Network with your peers and leading
online portal. The Institute sets standards membership include: networking with your peers, then membership training providers.
of ethics and professional conduct as well, • Evidence of your professionalism to clients. of the IC is an important facet of your • Be presented with new business
through a code of conduct that every • Continuous route for your career professional profile. opportunities.
member signs up to. development, from online CPD to a • Maximise your potential.
qualifications pathway. The IC has a number of professional • Develop alternative ways of thinking.
Membership provides clients with the • A full programme of networking events, qualifications from which to choose; the Level • Gain added confidence.
reassurance that you will put professional locally, nationally and online. 5 in Professional Consulting; Level 5 Business • Get access to student support
standards first in all that you do. • Support for your business development Support and Level 7 in Professional Consulting, resources, including the Body of
with a National Register and tender alerts. (all at Award, Certificate or Diploma), taking you Knowledge during the course and
The IC is also unique in the UK in • Industry-leading online information from an introduction, to consulting essentials, membership upgrade on completion.
having authority to confer the Certified services at your fingertips, including through to the skills and competencies to
Management Consultant (CMC) award for ConsultingDirect. become a consultant. In addition there is Choosing your qualification
competence in consultancy. This the Certified Management Consultant (CMC) The Level 5 in Professional Consulting
well-regarded international award Becoming a member of the Institute accolade, an internationally-recognised award qualification gives an opportunity to gain an
demonstrates that a management consultant Anyone can join the IC and become a member. offered exclusively in the UK by the IC. understanding in consulting essentials. It is
has strong consultancy skills, experience Your category of membership will depend
and professional integrity. The assessment is on the blend of qualifications, skills and
robust and includes endorsement by client experience that you have. On joining you
references. That helps CMCs stand out and will have a clear pathway to progress your
demonstrate their competence to work in membership as your career and experience
areas of consultancy in which they claim grows. You can find more information about
proficiency. The IC also provides members IC membership and how it could help you
with updates on business opportunities develop your career as a consultant via the
and the ability to profile themselves on the contact details below. 
National Consultants’ Register.
CONTACT
Ultimately, IC membership provides
the means for consultants and advisers Institute of Consulting
to demonstrate that they work to high 3rd Floor,
professional standards and have the 77 Kingsway,
London, WC2B 6SR
necessary knowledge, skills and experience
to competently execute assignments. This is a www.iconsulting.org.uk
significant differentiator for consultants when +44 (0)153 620 7307
meeting potential clients.

PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANCY QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANCY QUALIFICATIONS
intended for people who are considering a There are no specific entry requirements the learner the option to further develop their • Management mentoring
move into the profession from a functional for this qualification, but it is expected that skills in the role of a business support adviser. • Management of action learning
discipline, or for those who wish to obtain most candidates are intending to enter • Managing the change process.
an introduction to the skills and knowledge into a management consulting role and will Both the Certificate and Diploma in Business
needed in the field of management consultancy. therefore be educated to degree level or hold Support are aimed at all business support All qualifications can be completed at Award,
a minimum of two years’ business experience. professionals, whether you are considering Certificate or Diploma level.
As an aspiring management consultant, you embarking upon a career in this field or are
will learn about: More experienced consultants should consider already a practising business adviser. Studying
• Consulting essentials the Level 7 Diploma in Professional Consulting for these qualifications can be adapted to suit
• Planning and managing consultancy which will develop your knowledge, skills the individual’s particular needs. Everything you need to know
interventions and behaviours to operate as a management
• The client relationship consultant. It is intended for people who want to In order to obtain the Certificate, candidates about the profession:
• Communication for consultants enter management consultancy from a functional must complete the mandatory unit and at least www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
• Problem solving tools and techniques discipline, or for those who wish to develop the two optional units to a minimum of 24 credits
for consultants. skills and knowledge needed to operate in the in total to achieve this qualification. Assessment
field of management consultancy. for these units can include evidence drawn
from observation of client contacts, candidate The Certified Management Consultant award
As a developing management consultant, you reflective accounts, professional discussion, oral The Certified Management Consultant (CMC)
will learn about: and written questioning, testing and evidence award is the mark of a competent and confident
• Organisational structure and culture from prior experience. consultant. It is the only internationally portable
• Entry and diagnosis consultancy award and is recognised in 67
• Managing consultancy interventions To obtain the Diploma, candidates must countries. The IC is the only organisation in
• Tools and techniques for effective consulting complete all mandatory units and one the UK who is able to award the CMC and is
• Group dynamics and facilitating skills optional unit to a minimum of 45 credits accredited to do so by the ICMCI. It provides a
• Professional practice in total and a 2,500-3,000 word work real differentiator that is recognised globally.
• Professional development in consulting related project. There are no specific entry
• Managing the business of consulting requirements for this qualification. The CMC award is achieved by completing
• Communicating strategies for consulting a competency-based assessment process
• Strategic performance management The course will cover the following units: supported by experienced assessors who
• Organisational direction • Introduction to business support assess the skills, knowledge and behaviours
• Strategic project management • Develop effective business support needed to be a successful consultant.
• Organisational change relationships with clients
• Leadership and coaching and • Enable the client to analyse the business CMC is an independent endorsement mapped to
mentoring skills. and implement change professional standards and competencies, that:
• Develop business support networks • Proves your ability to provide solutions to
It is recommended that candidates are • Reflective practice and development in client business needs that create value.
educated to degree level or equivalent, or hold business support • Demonstrates that you have the
a minimum of five years’ business experience. • Monitoring the business support service. experience and knowledge to deliver
impartial and professional interventions.
The Level 5 Qualification in Business Optional units: • Differentiates you as a consultant that
Support is also an introductory unit to • Conducting a management project delivers high quality services.
business support that gives the learner a • Marketing planning • Sets the standard for what is expected of
full understanding of the importance of • Operational risk management preferred suppliers of consultancy services.
communication and relationship building, • Organisational corporate social • Indicates to clients and peers that you
understanding the business support process responsibility have been independently verified against
and the importance of how to conduct and • Introduction to management coaching universally accepted standards for
develop oneself as a business support adviser. and mentoring experienced business consultants.
• Management coaching and mentoring
Within the Diploma, IC have introduced units and the organisation CMC remains current and relevant through a
from CMI Management & Leadership and • Management coaching and mentoring skills three yearly recertification – providing proof of
Coaching & Mentoring qualifications to give • Management coaching practice continued development and competence. 

ABOUT THE MCA
ABOUT THE MCA

The Management Consultancies Association (MCA) is the leading Membership is a badge of quality that testifies
professional body for the UK management consultancy industry and to the standard of services provided and
the organisational values behind them. This A-Z of top consultancy firms:
many of the top practices in the UK belong to it. By promoting high
reassures clients that MCA firms exemplify www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
standards and the true value of consultancy, the MCA is ensuring its
quality in the industry.
members are an integral part of any successful business.
Outstanding pieces of consultancy work and You will find more information about the MCA
the best individual consultants are recognised on their website at www.mca.org.uk
About the MCA services remains the largest private sector each year in the MCA Awards. Case studies
The MCA is the leading trade body for the buyer of consulting services while spend on are submitted jointly by firms and their clients Twitter: @TheMCA_UK 
UK’s management consulting industry and infrastructure is rising. Meanwhile strategy and the awards are fiercely contested, with
comprises most of the country’s top firms. consulting has reinvented itself and has shown the winners announced at a gala dinner each
significant growth in the last year. spring. Full details of the 2017 winning entries
It promotes high standards in the industry are available on the MCA website.
and in the contribution its members make to The role of the MCA
the economy. The MCA’s mission is: ‘To promote the value of Uniting the industry
management consultancy for the economy and The MCA enables the industry to come
Management consultants help take society as a whole’. together, network and turn common challenges
organisations further than they would go on into shared opportunities. Every member is
their own. The MCA’s member companies To achieve this, its main focus is on three represented in a Council that helps set the
help create better leaders, better decisions key roles: agenda for the industry and guide MCA activity.
and better delivery. • Being a powerful voice for the
consulting industry. The MCA run a series of overarching networks
These companies represent two thirds of the • Standing up for high standards of which consultants can progress through as
UK consulting industry in fee income, estimated professionalism and integrity within they move forward with their careers. These
to be worth £5.5 billion in 2015, employ more the industry. networks offer professional development,
than 45,000 consultants and work with every • Creating better engagement with and networking and the opportunity to hear from a
leading UK public and private organisation. between members and their staff. variety of speakers within the industry.
They add real value and do amazing work.
A powerful voice for the industry The networks facilitate the sharing of
The consulting industry The MCA informs and influences public experience and best practice within the
The UK consulting industry is extraordinarily debate on topical issues, and provides industry through initiatives such as the Young
diverse, and this is reflected in the authoritative data on the industry. It MCA, the Consultancy Buyers Forum, the Think
membership of the MCA. Members encompass commissions research and policy analysis and Tank and a set of issue-based working groups
all strands of consulting from ‘pure’ strategy represents the industry in discussions with the and committees that shape our events, policy
to technology, engineering, HR, marketing, government and other stakeholders. and research programmes.
outsourcing and corporate advisory
companies. The range and sophistication Its aim is to ensure that management For more information
of modern management consulting is a consultancy is better understood and The MCA’s Consulting Bulletin e-newsletter
significant strength of the UK economy and a recognised by the wider public as well as by provides anyone interested in management
source of great competitive advantage. existing and potential clients. By being ‘the consulting with news, tips, interviews and
voice of the industry’ the MCA tells the positive thought pieces which address the main
The industry’s performance is one of story of management consultancy, as well issues facing the industry.
continued consolidation and growth. Many as combating some of the myths and false
more firms are now also working overseas, perceptions surrounding the profession.
increasing consulting’s role as a key export for
the British economy. Promoting standards
The MCA promotes high standards in the UK
Digital consulting continues to grow, and management consultancy industry. Members
according to MCA data now accounts for just meet strict entry criteria and annually declare their
under 28% of all consulting revenues. Financial commitment to the Consulting Excellence scheme.

ABOUT THE YOUNG MCA
ABOUT THE YOUNG MCA

The Young MCA is the professional network for those starting out Online community number of online publications associated
in a career in management consultancy. Throughout the year, the The Young MCA has an ever growing online with the MCA and the industry.
community who mainly communicate with
network delivers a diverse and engaging programme of events
each other via the group’s LinkedIn page, Promoting consulting as a career
where attendees have the opportunity to build their network, to which has grown in numbers over the past One of the Young MCA’s missions is to
further their professional development and share experiences. couple of years. promote the consultancy profession to
school leavers and undergraduates. The
network holds a number of university career
The Young MCA is a network organised by the personal development content, followed by the
The network’s vision is to sessions during the academic year and works
with graduate recruiters to show what life
MCA for member consultancy firms’ staff in the opportunity to network with, and learn from, engage and develop the young is like as a consultant. The network also
first five years of their consulting career. peers within other member consultancies.
Senior members of the consulting community
consultant community and contributes to various career publications to
give their first-hand knowledge of the career
The network’s vision is to engage and are often invited to share their experiences and shape the future of the industry. path of a young consultant.
develop the young consultant community pass on their advice.
and shape the future of the industry. The Twitter: @TheYoungMCA 
network is run by the MCA and a council of Events highlights of 2016/17 include: Here Young MCA members share and
young consultants from each member firm. • The Real Power of Goals discuss industry news, viewpoints and
The council has overall responsibility for the • Essential Leadership: What it takes to be a resources which have added value to the
Young MCA’s goals and actions. Charity Trustee industry as a whole. Young MCA members Routes into consultancy:
• Making Networking Work also have the opportunity to raise their www.insidecareers.co.uk/man
Professional development & networking • Thinking Your Way to Success profile and voice their opinion through a
The Young MCA team delivers a series of • The Future of Energy
events and networking opportunities for its • Transport Infrastructure
members. These events typically combine • How to persuade anyone to do
a business-focused session, which delivers anything (well almost).
Stephen George – Public Sector Consultant with Grant Thornton
The Young MCA offers young consultants the chance to engage with their
industry and peers at other member firms. This might include learning about
the consulting market at large, how different firms approach problems or
an industry sector in particular. Participating in the Young MCA gives you
exposure beyond the walls of your firm or your clients. Above all, it offers you
a shortcut to a network of hundreds of young consultants in the UK.
To make the most of the Young MCA, and benefit from professional development
opportunities, get involved with all the network has to offer. This could be via attending
events, getting to know other networks the Young MCA has relationships with,
representing the consulting industry at university or schools events, or wider volunteering
initiatives and social gatherings.
In the past, we have run events on the future of the retail industry, transport
infrastructure, and the challenges and opportunities facing female consultants returning
to work. Many events focus on imparting valuable professional skills, such as public
speaking, leadership and goal-setting.
I have been a member of the Executive committee for a year and involved in the Young MCA
for three years. It has been a pleasure to expand my knowledge of the consulting industry,
grow my network and my skills and meet some of the friendliest young consultants. Get
involved; you will soon be glad you gave it a go!

EMPLOYER DIRECTORY
Accenture 62
Alfa 63
A.T. Kearney 64
BAE Systems 65
BCG 66
Charles River Associates 67
CIL Management Consultants 68
Credo 69
Hymans Robertson 70
L.E.K. Consulting 71
Marakon 72
NERA Economic Consulting 74
OC&C Strategy Consultants 75
Roland Berger 76
Sysdoc 77
JOB FINDER
Job Finder 78
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY EMPLOYER DIRECTORY
As one of the world’s leading consulting and No. of employees About Alfa No. of employees
technology organisations, we achieve amazing 411,000 worldwide Formerly CHP Consulting, Alfa is the provider of Alfa 320
things for our clients every day – whether that’s Systems, the number one software choice for asset
increasing profits, gaining a greater market share, Type of consultancy finance companies worldwide. Type of consultancy
redefining strategies, innovating with leading-edge Strategy and Technology IT
technologies or offering better customer experiences. Alfa Systems is at the heart of some of the
We partner with more than three-quarters of the Opportunities available world’s largest and most innovative asset finance Opportunities available
4 GRADUATE JOBS 4 GRADUATE JOBS
Fortune Global 500, driving innovation to improve companies. Our implementations revolutionise
4 INTERNSHIPS
the way the world works and lives. 4 PLACEMENTS our clients’ businesses, and our track record is
No. of graduate jobs
exceptional. We’ve been completing complex
20-25
We examine a client’s organisation to solve their No. of graduate jobs projects all over the globe since 1990.
toughest challenges, working out how best to 500+ Disciplines recruited from
improve them using the latest technology and digital Our Junior Consultants are recruited from graduates All degrees considered
solutions, and implement agreed actions to bring No. of undergraduate opportunities of the highest calibre across all disciplines. New
about positive, lasting and profitable change. For us, Varies recruits are given an intensive induction into Offices recruited into
it’s not just about coming up with great ideas, it’s areas such as the asset finance industry, software London (HQ), Europe, USA and NZ
also about successfully delivering transformational Disciplines recruited from development and consultancy skills, before being
outcomes for a demanding new digital world. Multiple disciplines, please see website assigned to a project where they can put their
training into practice. Supervised at all times by more
To manage the broad spectrum of challenges our Offices recruited into experienced consultants, recent joiners will find that
clients face, our business needs to be diverse, which Edinburgh, London, Manchester the open culture means they also have easy access
is why we’ve set up our organisation across five and Newcastle to senior managers and directors for discussion and
key business areas. These are Accenture Strategy; guidance. With some help from their colleagues, our
Accenture Consulting; Accenture Digital; Accenture newest consultants will be helping to change the way
Technology and Accenture Operations. Combining businesses work from the very start of their career.
unmatched experience and specialised skills across
more than 40 industries has enabled us to deliver With over 40 clients in 18 countries, Alfa has our
ground-breaking solutions and new innovative headquarters in London and has offices in Europe,
technology that impacts millions of lives every day. Asia-Pacific and the United States. 
There are a variety of ways you can join us as a

graduate at Accenture. Whichever programme you join,
you’ll enjoy the perfect mix of intensive training, expert
support, live project experience and great benefits.
We have a strong Diversity & Inclusion agenda,

focused on enabling our employees to be themselves
and use their unique talents to make a difference
in the world. As a graduate, you’ll be encouraged
to explore your passions, both in and out of the For application deadlines, the For application deadlines, the
workplace, and nurtured to develop your skills. latest jobs and events visit: latest jobs and events visit:
To apply visit www.accenture.com/ukgraduates  www.insidecareers.co.uk www.insidecareers.co.uk

About us No. of employees At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world’s most No. of employees
A.T. Kearney is a leading global management 3,500 advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and 83,100
consultancy, helping some of the world’s largest security solutions, employing a skilled workforce of
companies to achieve sustainable competitive Type of consultancy some 83,100 people in over 40 countries. Working Type of consultancy
advantage. For over 80 years we’ve provided strategic Strategy and with customers and local partners, we develop, Defence, Aerospace and Security solutions
Operations/Implementation
solutions to CEO-level concerns, delivering tangible engineer, manufacture and support products and
results through a broad range of capabilities. We’re systems to deliver military capability, protect national Opportunities available
Opportunities available 4 GRADUATE JOBS
known for our insight and experience, but our greatest security and people and keep critical information and
4 GRADUATE JOBS 4 INTERNSHIPS
asset is our people. We help businesses achieve infrastructure secure. 4 PLACEMENTS
long-term growth and performance. We work side
by side with clients, and see our projects through to No set quota
As one of the world’s most innovative companies, No. of graduate jobs
completion. We’re committed to consistently successful we can offer you an exciting and fulfilling career. 200
delivery – 90% of our work is repeat business. Disciplines recruited from
By demonstrating your passion and enthusiasm to
Numerate disciplines improve within a chosen field, you will receive the No. of undergraduate opportunities
About you support you need to be creative and pioneering 150
Every year we appoint a number of outstanding Offices recruited into throughout your development. That’s how you can
candidates to consultant positions. There is no single London set the stage for an amazing future with us. Disciplines recruited from
model – new joiners may come from university or Various degree disciplines – please refer
business school, from industry, or from non-business The Graduate Development Framework (GDF) is to www.baesystems.com/graduates for
pursuits. We value proven achievers with excellent our two year scheme which develops people who further information
academic backgrounds. Relevant personal attributes are passionate about their chosen field. As our
include exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, largest scheme we have a variety of business and Offices recruited into
Multiple across the UK
the ability to communicate persuasively and to build engineering opportunities available.
lasting relationships, an industrious and team-focused
attitude, and strong personal drive, impact and maturity. Alongside this, BAE Systems Applied Intelligence
offer a range of early career positions in Consulting,
Why A.T. Kearney Engineering and Project Management roles. You will be
As a new consultant, you will be a fully participating involved in supporting the delivery of solutions which
member of the team from the outset. You will help our clients to protect against cyber threats and
have the chance to travel widely, to gain priceless enhance their critical assets in the connected world.
experience of many industries and to learn how
to make a difference in the consulting world. You The Finance Leader Development Programme (FLDP)
will also find that A.T. Kearney has a very human is our five year fast-track graduate scheme which
face. Though our consultants work hard, they’re seeks to prepare you to become a Finance Director of
encouraged to focus on work/life balance. And the future within the organisation. Finance underpins
our strength comes not just from the depth of our everything we do – so it is vital that we find and
expertise, but from our diversity and inclusive culture nurture our future finance leaders.
– at our London office alone over 43 nationalities
are represented. You will enjoy a comprehensive Sigma is our three year fast-track leadership
performance management process, a dedicated For application deadlines, the programme created for people of the very highest For application deadlines, the
mentor, and a long-term development programme, latest jobs and events visit: potential. With only a few places available each latest jobs and events visit:
designed to help you deliver lasting personal and year you will be provided with a breadth and
professional impact. Above all you will discover a www.insidecareers.co.uk depth of knowledge from across multiple business www.insidecareers.co.uk
challenging and rewarding career with a passionate areas to develop as engineering and business
and innovative firm.  leaders of the future. 

The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is a global No. of employees Charles River Associates is a leading global consulting No. of employees
management consulting firm with more than 85 14,000 firm that offers economic, financial and strategic 750
offices in 48 countries. BCG pioneers ideas that drive expertise to major law firms, corporations, accounting
sustained competitive advantage and transform Type of consultancy firms and governments around the world. Type of consultancy
clients, industries, and society. Strategy Economic
With proven skills in complex cases and exceptional
BCG is a diverse place: there are many reasons to join Opportunities available strength in analytics, CRA consultants have provided Opportunities available
this company, but ultimately, it’s about three elements: astute guidance to clients in thousands of successful
4 INTERNSHIPS 4 INTERNSHIPS
4 INSIGHTS
engagements. We offer litigation and regulatory
Building impact support, business strategy and planning, market
In an increasingly complex world, BCG goes deep No. of graduate jobs
and demand forecasting, policy analysis, and risk Varies
to unlock insight and have the courage to act. No set quota management consulting.
No. of undergraduate opportunities
BCG is partner and trusted advisor to the world’s most No. of undergraduate opportunities Our success stems from the outstanding capabilities Varies
influential businesses, governments, and non-profits. No set quota of our consultants, many of whom are recognised
The company helps them respond to today’s incredible as experts in their respective fields; our close Disciplines recruited from
pace of change to stay competitive and add value to Disciplines recruited from relationships with a select group of respected Economics, business, life sciences
society. With BCG, you learn how to navigate complexity, All degrees considered academic and industry experts; and from a and engineering
draw unique insights, facilitate change and become a corporate philosophy that stresses interdisciplinary
leader responsible for real and lasting impact. Offices recruited into collaboration and responsive service. Offices recruited into
London and 84 other offices worldwide London, Brussels, Munich, Lucerne and
Connecting aspirations We are seeking highly motivated and energetic North America
It’s pretty simple – BCGers genuinely want to help final year undergraduate, graduates, Masters and
their clients and each other succeed. PhD candidates who are able to learn quickly,
apply prior knowledge to current situations, solve
Challenged by mentors and supported by teams, you problems, manage time effectively and have strong
will join a diverse group of highly driven, exceptional communications skills.
individuals who respect and trust each other. In a culture
where ideas are heard regardless of tenure, the deep Training: Learning is a priority for our people.
relationships you develop with clients and colleagues CRA’s training portfolio was designed to support
will become a foundation for your future endeavours. the outstanding capabilities of our consultants
while keeping employee advancement top of mind.
Growing leaders Through a diverse menu of learning modalities,
To truly develop yourself, you have to challenge our integrated development model focuses on
established thinking. You have to seek a better way. building key skills, mastering tools and developing
relationships critical to each stage of your career.
Supported by the global team of BCG experts across Our learning model will introduce behaviors
a breadth of topics, your career will dramatically and expectations at every stage of your career.
accelerate through faster learning and rapid Foundations for each of CRA’s core competencies
advancement. Your experiences will help you find For application deadlines, the are built early in your career track and then the For application deadlines, the
deep personal meaning as you develop a platform for latest jobs and events visit: development focus shifts as you grow.  latest jobs and events visit:
future success. Whether you are here for two years
or two decades, you will become a part of BCG’s www.insidecareers.co.uk www.insidecareers.co.uk
heritage of game-changing ideas, business model
innovation, and reshaping landscapes. 

CIL Management Consultants are a UK-based No. of employees Credo is a market-leading strategy consultancy with No. of employees
consulting firm with a market-leading position within 70 global reach. We work with the leaders of today’s 70
our niche. Most of our engagements involve an most forward-thinking and influential companies,
M&A element, primarily to provide commercial due Type of consultancy providing solutions for key strategic issues: which Type of consultancy
diligence for leading private equity firms. We also Strategy markets to target, what business model to use and Strategy
provide strategy consulting to a variety of companies, how to achieve above-market returns.
from global blue chips to the UK’s most successful Opportunities available Opportunities available
smaller businesses. We work across diverse markets, including: business
services, financial investors, healthcare, transport,
We like to think we’re pretty unique in the world software & IT services and TMT. We provide strategic,
No. of graduate jobs No. of graduate jobs
of management consulting. Although we work in 20
operational and due diligence support to these markets, 10+
structured project teams, we are socially very equal, advising corporates, public sector organisations,
lively and inclusive. There are no corner offices, no No. of undergraduate opportunities
not-for-profits and global Private Equity houses. No. of undergraduate opportunities
private fiefdoms, no cliques – we work in open-plan 8 c. 5
offices and are not political. We think ‘a culture’ is We believe the Credo culture is critical to our success.
something larger firms have to invent. Ours is the Disciplines recruited from We have a flat management structure, an open and Disciplines recruited from
product of the individuals we employ. We are subject agnostic and supportive office atmosphere and our smaller case All degrees considered
welcome applications from a broad teams mean greater responsibility early on.
Like all consulting firms, we are only as good as our range of disciplines Offices recruited into
people. In order to continue our strong growth we Dynamic environment London and Dubai
want to recruit bright, motivated graduates to join Offices recruited into You will be joining a partnership with an exceptional
us in both our London and Frome offices. We are London and Frome, near Bath track record of growth. We are continually deepening
running two intakes in 2018 – April and September our expertise in our key markets and have successfully
– and are also accepting applications from final year expanded into adjacent sectors in which we can
students looking to defer until April 2019. leverage our strengths.
Our offices At Credo, we have an inclusive approach to

We have two offices – one in London and one in developing the business. You might work alongside
Frome, near Bath in the South West. Our London a Partner on a proposal, manage our research
office is based in The City, close to Bank and St Paul’s budget or become involved in recruitment – offering
tube stations. Through our Frome office, we can offer important experience beyond case work.
outstanding opportunities to pursue a career that has
the pace and challenge of a city role while enjoying the Training and progression
benefits of working in beautiful Somerset. The vibrant New joiners are supported by a week-long induction
cities of Bristol and Bath are just a short drive away. programme, and continuous improvement is
achieved through Quarterly Training Days. Associate
How to apply Consultants undertake external training on Financial
Please send through a CV and covering letter Analysis, whilst Senior Consultants have access to
explaining why you’d like to meet us to funds to tailor courses to their specific needs.
careers@cilconsultants.com. Please state clearly For application deadlines, the For application deadlines, the
which office (London or Frome) and intake (April latest jobs and events visit: Structured feedback is given at the end of each latest jobs and events visit:
2018, September 2018 or April 2019) you are engagement and there are six-monthly promotion
applying for.  www.insidecareers.co.uk opportunities. These are entirely based on merit and www.insidecareers.co.uk
not dependent on firm performance, meaning the
speed of your progression is up to you. 

Brighter futures aren’t down to chance No. of employees L.E.K. Consulting is a global strategy consulting firm No. of employees
750 that addresses the most complex commercial issues c. 1,000
At Hymans Robertson we’re proud to deliver for some of the world’s most successful businesses.
award winning independent advice on pensions, Type of consultancy Type of consultancy
investments, benefits and life insurance. Financial and Investments Clients come to us time and again because we have Strategy
proven to be an insightful expert and a trusted
We work with a wide range of clients and our Opportunities available partner. We are uncompromising in our approach Opportunities available
solutions give companies, trustees and members to helping them consistently make better decisions,
everything they need for brighter pensions prospects. deliver improved business performance and create
We are steadfastly independent in every possible greater shareholder returns.
way, from our ownership, through to our advice. 20+ c. 35
This is what allows us to put clients at the heart of Our teams combine our core capabilities of research,
our business and provide them with the advice and No. of undergraduate opportunities
benchmarking, modelling, analysis and strategy No. of undergraduate opportunities
solutions that truly meet their needs. 15+ development to create game-changing insights and c. 6
practical solutions that deliver real impact.
At the heart of it all are our relationships – with Disciplines recruited from Disciplines recruited from
our clients and colleagues. We form genuine, All degree subjects welcome, although With more than 1,000 professionals located across All degrees considered
collaborative relationships that last. the nature of actuarial work and study five continents, L.E.K. specialises in Strategy, Mergers
will suit highly numerate individuals & Acquisitions (M&A), Operations and Marketing & Offices recruited into
If you’re interested in one of our consultancy Sales. We are expert in a wide range of industries, London
programmes – graduate, summer internship or Offices recruited into including healthcare, energy, industrials, retail &
placement year – then you’ll need to have a passion London, Birmingham, Edinburgh consumer, financial services and transportation.
and Glasgow
for business and possess an effective blend of
technical and interpersonal skills in order to succeed. Associate (entry level) position: Associates are
involved in all aspects of strategic and financial
From the start you’ll work as part of a team, receive analysis, offering exposure to multiple industry sectors
hands on training and apply your mathematical and and a wide variety of commercial challenges. The
analytical skills to provide tailored solutions to our nature and pace of L.E.K.’s strategic work facilitates the
clients. You’ll analyse complex data and present rapid development of a highly analytical skill set, which
results of calculations and sophisticated modelling in is underpinned by a structured training programme.
an engaging and compelling way to help our clients The Associate role at L.E.K. provides a dynamic, varied
make the best possible decisions. and highly rewarding work environment.
As a graduate trainee consultant with us you’ll also We offer a very comprehensive training programme
get comprehensive and personalised support with which is structured over three years. New joiners will have
your professional studies as you work towards the an initial two-week orientation, followed by continuous
Actuarial or the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) monthly training sessions, which are tailored to the needs
qualification. We’ll work with you to make sure that of your position. L.E.K.’s training covers the full range of
you make the most of your potential. technical, analytical, strategy, communication, project
For application deadlines, the management and relationship building skills. For application deadlines, the
Because everyone should have the best prospects for a latest jobs and events visit: latest jobs and events visit:
bright career, and you shouldn’t leave that to chance.  Summer Associate position: This programme is
www.insidecareers.co.uk open to penultimate year students who are interested www.insidecareers.co.uk
in gaining an insight into the Associate career. The
internship runs for eight weeks over July and August. 

TRAINEE PROFILE
NAME Gonzalo Ramos
About us No. of employees LOCATION London
We are a leading strategy consulting firm with over 35 80 worldwide
years’ experience helping CEOs and their teams build UNIVERSITY Cambridge
stronger, more successful organisations. Our clients Type of consultancy DEGREE Natural Sciences and Management
hire us when their ambitions are high but the way Corporate Strategy
forward is unclear, and when long-term success is as ROLE Associate
important as immediate impact. Opportunities available
4 GRADUATE JOBS
Opportunities available
By joining Marakon you will work with leading global
4-6 Why did you choose Marakon? responsibilities evolve as you progress in your
companies on the greatest strategic challenges they
The main attraction for me was Marakon’s career, and at Marakon this happens very quickly.
face, providing diverse opportunities to develop and
Disciplines recruited from focus on strategy as opposed to other types
the skills for you to have lasting impact. But you won’t All degrees considered of consulting projects. During my internship Thankfully, training and support is excellent – I
be on your own: at Marakon, you will be part of a
in the strategy division of a pharmaceutical have been taught everything from corporate
firm that places huge emphasis on supporting you Offices recruited into company, I caught a glimpse of the complex finance to how to write better emails. We
throughout your career. In your first two years, you London decisions that firms must make. Strategy each have a dedicated coach who helps us
will receive over 300 hours of formal training to get
consulting seemed like the natural fit for assess performance and progress and gives us
to grips with strategy, finance, communicating with
me – tackling only the most difficult and honest career advice.
impact and stakeholder engagement. Throughout,
interesting questions, requiring careful
you will receive mentoring from a dedicated buddy
thought and analysis, was exactly the type of I have since worked on projects across
and senior coach to help you fulfil your potential, and
work I was looking for. healthcare and insurance, with shorter pieces
enjoy annual Worldwide Associate Conferences with
in banking and natural resources. I have
your peer group and external experts.
Secondly, but perhaps most importantly, was taken great pride in seeing our work used to
Marakon’s boutique size and feel. A card make big decisions at Board meetings and
Training
congratulating me on the offer, signed by discussions with executives – this has been the
In your first two years, you will receive over 150
the whole team, was a true reflection of the most rewarding part of my career so far.
hours of formal training to learn the basics of good
welcoming and collaborative nature of the firm.
consulting and our practice e.g. corporate and business
After joining I very quickly got to know the What do you get involved in besides your
unit strategy, financials and valuation, presentation
team – both in London and from our offices client engagements?
and client interaction skills. Throughout your time at
around the world, having been flown out to At Marakon everyone plays a role in firm
Marakon you will also benefit from a career coach who
Florida for our annual global conference just building. Adding more responsibilities to
will support your progression and development and
two weeks into the job. your workload can be challenging at times,
ensure that it’s tailored to your needs. 
but I must admit I find it refreshing to spend
What was your experience starting out a few hours a week contributing to the firm
at Marakon? more broadly. Through my involvement in
In my first week I started a project with a global recruitment I have found myself screening CVs,
insurance company; it was great to be in at the helping build our website, organising social
deep end, but quite a daunting experience. events, and even speaking at a case study
Just a couple of months later I found myself skills workshop back in Cambridge, only four
For application deadlines, the abroad, presenting to our client. Your role and months after graduating! 
latest jobs and events visit:

Who we are No. of employees ‘What is the future of television? How much No. of employees
NERA Economic Consulting has been applying 500 should we invest in emerging markets? What do I 500
economic principles on behalf of clients around need to do to win with Millennials?’
the world for more than half a century, providing Type of consultancy Type of consultancy
analysis, expert testimony and regulatory insight in Economic We answer the toughest questions facing businesses. Strategy
complex litigation, regulation and business situations. We do rapid, high-impact projects for chief executives
Operating in over 25 offices across North America, Opportunities available and boards. At OC&C we strive to create an Opportunities available
Europe and Asia Pacific, our economic advice helps 4 GRADUATE JOBS 4 GRADUATE JOBS
extraordinary firm that offers the best service to our
guide corporations, governments, law firms and clients and the best opportunities for our teams.
regulatory agencies.
20-25 Over the last 30 years, we have grown to become a No set quota
NERA’s economists employ a combination of global strategy consultancy with 14 offices in four
economic, accounting, statistics and finance theory, continents, serving leading companies and private
No. of undergraduate opportunities No. of undergraduate opportunities
along with the latest quantitative techniques, to 10 equity houses. No set quota
provide clear and credible expert analyses that
have an impact on important decisions through the Disciplines recruited from Going beyond conventional wisdom Disciplines recruited from
application of microeconomics. Economics and finance At OC&C we all have one thing in common – a fierce All degrees considered
interest in finding the best answer for our clients. We
What we offer you Offices recruited into believe in applying a rigorous analytical approach Offices recruited into
We provide a work environment that blends academic Europe, Asia Pacific and US alongside creative thinking to create winning and London
economics and real-world markets. Our consultants differentiated strategies.
apply their microeconomic and quantitative training to
projects arising from major market events such as large From your first day, you will find yourself an integral
corporate mergers, major litigation, new environmental member of one of our project teams with real
proposals, financial crises and deregulation. responsibility to drive the answer and understand the
‘so what?’ of diverse market data, structural trends and
With over 400 professional economists, statisticians competitive environments. We have deep expertise in
and financial experts worldwide, NERA provides retail, leisure, consumer goods, media, technology and
an intellectually stimulating, dynamic and collegial business services, so you will work with thought-leaders
workplace. Our employees are continually encouraged and leading companies across sectors.
to build their skills by working on a variety of
assignments, as well as by taking advantage of business, Not your average consultants
management and technical skills training courses. Developing your skills is at the heart of our success
– introductory training will equip you with the core
We provide challenging opportunities to those eager consulting toolkit, ongoing training will hone your
to take on the responsibility and who want to make an knowledge of finance, accounting and strategic thinking,
impact early in their career. We welcome applications and project work will offer you diverse opportunities to
from PhD, Masters and final-year undergraduate students. learn from colleagues, think creatively and get under the
Visit www.nera.com/careers to apply. skin of a business. We also host bi-annual offsites (recent
For application deadlines, the locations include Chicago and Amsterdam). For application deadlines, the
Fast Facts
latest jobs and events visit: latest jobs and events visit:
1. NERA was the first microeconomics consulting Continuing to attract the best graduates is at the heart
firm established. www.insidecareers.co.uk of our ongoing success. We are looking for people with www.insidecareers.co.uk
2. We have worked with all 100 of the American outstanding analytical minds and eclectic interests. We
Lawyer Global 100 largest law firms.  encourage candidates from all disciplines. 

About us No. of employees Sysdoc is an innovative specialist consultancy that No. of employees
Roland Berger is the leading international consultancy 2,500+ works with clients to deliver successful and sustainable c. 100
of European origin, with over 2,500 employees business transformation and change. Since our
working across 50 offices. We serve top clients on Type of consultancy formation in 1986, we have supported a large global Type of consultancy
challenging assignments across all major markets, Strategy client base, including major corporate, government Business Process Documentation;
taking pride in developing creative strategies and Change Management and Training
and public sector organisations, to successfully
supporting the implementation of practical solutions. Opportunities available address their most complex business challenges.
4 GRADUATE JOBS Opportunities available
4 INTERNSHIPS 4 GRADUATE JOBS
The London office’s main practice areas are We deliver practical and innovative solutions 4 INTERNSHIPS
Aerospace & Defence, Private Equity, Engineered that drive significant improvement in business
Products, Healthcare and Transportation. Additionally, performance. Our leading edge multi-media
5-8 No. of graduate jobs
we offer functional expertise in Financial Investor approach to engaging people in learning and our c. 10, see careers website
support, Operations, Restructuring and War-Gaming. expertise with customised SharePoint solutions have
No. of undergraduate opportunities
Varies led to multiple global awards. Have a look at our case No. of undergraduate opportunities
At Roland Berger you won’t find standard consultants, studies pages to see real examples of our successes. Varies
but outstanding individuals. Fascinating people with Disciplines recruited from
highly diverse interests and abilities, colleagues with All degrees considered The Sysdoc team comprises experienced consultants, Disciplines recruited from
whom you want to exchange ideas. Our London office bringing fresh thinking, expertise and energy to All degrees considered
has a diverse and inclusive culture and here you’re Offices recruited into deliver measurable and sustainable results; be it in
not just part of a team, you actively help shape it – London a project, business as usual or advisory capacity. We Offices recruited into
both professionally and personally. guarantee our delivery, and our clients rate us highly. Central London (with work nationwide)
Junior Consultant role What makes Sysdoc special is our people. They
From day one you will be immersed in the way we work. have enabled us to build a thriving global business
With a small office feel you will be working directly that is founded on collaborative interpersonal
with Partners and clients, and taking on responsibility communication and strong relationships.
quickly. Typically, you will be exposed to a wide range
of projects, from which you will gain a broad range of Our people work in partnership with our clients.
industrial and functional expertise. Areas of involvement They have strong analytical and strategic skills, and
include making action and business-orientated experience in a wide range of industries, technologies
recommendations, gathering and analysing data, and systems. They can quickly understand how your
interviewing stakeholders and experts, developing ideas business, people and systems operate, and therefore
for slides and building complex models. assess and understand your requirements.
Training and development We treat our people well and they stay with us –
We have a comprehensive training and development as celebrated by an award for innovative Human
scheme. New entrants will benefit from a two-week Resource practices. 
induction programme covering consulting skills, an
introduction to our corporate culture and a great
opportunity to network. You will have the opportunity
For application deadlines, the For application deadlines, the
to participate in up to three formal training programmes
latest jobs and events visit: latest jobs and events visit:
per year, as well as monthly in-house training sessions.
These training sessions, together with our mentoring www.insidecareers.co.uk www.insidecareers.co.uk
programme, are designed to ensure you have continued
support to reach your full potential. 

JOB FINDER JOB FINDER
TYPE OF TYPE OF
No. of undergraduate roles
No. of undergraduate roles

OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES
Offices recruited into
Offices recruited into


Type of consultancy
Type of consultancy
Further info (page)
Further info (page)

No. of employees
No. of employees
Graduate jobs
Graduate jobs
Placements
Placements
Internships
Internships
Company
Company
Insights
Insights
Edinburgh, London,
London, Financial Birmingham,
Strategy and
411,000 Manchester 4 4 4 8 500+ Varies 62 750 and Edinburgh 4 4 8 8 20+ 15+ 70
Technology
and Investments and
Newcastle Glasgow
London,
Europe,
320 IT 4 8 8 8 20-25 – 63 c. 1,000 Strategy London 4 4 8 8 c. 35 c. 6 71
USA and
NZ
Strategy and No
Corporate
3,500 Operations/ London 4 8 8 8 set – 64 80 London 4 8 8 8 4-6 – 72
Strategy
Implementation quota
Europe,
83,100 Technology Nationwide 4 4 4 8 200 150 65 500 Economic Asia Pacific 4 4 8 8 20-25 10 74
and US
London No No No No
14,000 Strategy and 4 4 8 4 set set 66 500 Strategy London 4 4 8 8 set set 75
worldwide quota quota quota quota
London
750 Economic and 4 4 8 8 Varies Varies 67 2,500+ Strategy London 4 4 8 8 5-8 Varies 76
worldwide
London
70 Strategy and Frome, 4 4 8 8 20 8 68 c. 100 Specialist London 4 4 8 8 c. 10 Varies 77
near Bath
London
70 Strategy 4 4 8 8 10+ c. 5 69
and Dubai

NOTES
Publisher: Cambridge Market Intelligence Ltd, Thornton House, Thornton Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4NG.
T: 0208 405 6412 | www.insidecareers.co.uk
Editorial: Katie Crane
Associate Publishers: MCA, 5th Floor, 36-38 Cornhill, London, EC3V 3NG | T: 020 7645 7950
Institute of Consulting, 4th Floor, 2 Savoy Court, Strand, London, WC2R 0EZ | T: 020 7497 0463
Acknowledgments: We are indebted to the MCA and the Institute of Consulting for their support, in particular to
Alice Newton, Luke Cummings and Tristan Garrick for their help throughout the preparation of the guide and for
reviewing the text for balance and accuracy.
ISBN 978-1-911394-04-4
Printed and bound in the UK by Cambrian Printers, Aberystwyth
Copyright in individual articles © 2017 the authors, who have asserted their right to be identified as the author
under s.7 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. The compilation © 2017 Cambridge Market Intelligence
Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted,
in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior
permission of the copyright owner. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, no responsibility for
loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication can be
accepted by the publisher or authors.
ONE DAY
AT BCG
A BCG Story by Roberta,
Associate, London office
9AM 9PM
Researching recent economic trends in a developing nation

Hashing out the details of a client presentation with a teammate Coffee break
Delivering answers to our clients on what matters most to them
Having dinner with my friends at my favorite restaurant
The Boston Consulting Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.
The Complete
Finance Range
GRADUATE JOBS | INTERNSHIPS & PLACEMENTS | ADVICE


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THE OFFICIAL GRADUATE CAREER GUIDE TO

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Management Consultancy in a Nutshell 08

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About the Institute of Consulting 52

INTRODUCTION FROM THE INSTITUTE OF

Management Consultancy | www.insidecareers.co.uk/man 5

Why Become a Consultant? 11

Salaries & Benefits 12

The Future of the Consulting Industry 14

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Case Study Interviews 24

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Team building The team-building activities that are put on for

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SENIOR CYBER SECURITY CONSULTANT

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SHERNA BHADRESA I’m a Senior Consultant at Egremont Group based in London. I

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Promoted to Senior Consultant

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2004 Every single day has new opportunities, challenges and a

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ABOUT THE MCA

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ABOUT THE YOUNG MCA

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There are a variety of ways you can join us as a

We have a strong Diversity & Inclusion agenda,