What is a career in management and strategic consultancy?
Working in management and strategic consultancy means becoming a trusted advisor to organisations facing critical decisions. Consultants analyse complex business problems, develop data-driven recommendations, and support implementation of strategic initiatives. The work is intellectually challenging, requiring strong analytical skills, creative problem-solving, and excellent communication abilities.
Projects typically last between three and six months and involve working in small teams directly with client leadership. You might help a retail chain expand internationally, assist a bank with digital transformation, or support a government department with policy implementation. The variety is immense – consultants often work across multiple industries and functions throughout their careers.
The sector values academic excellence, leadership potential, and diverse perspectives. While demanding in terms of hours and travel, consulting offers rapid skill development, exposure to senior executives, and accelerated career progression. Many consultants later transition to industry roles, bringing valuable strategic and analytical expertise to their new organisations.
Where can I work, what can I do, and how can I get there?
Types of organisations
Strategy houses:
- McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company (known as ‘MBB’)
- Other examples of strategic consultancies include Oliver Wyman, Roland Berger, L.E.K. Consulting, Parthenon-EY
- Close client relationships, entrepreneurial culture
- Focus on high-level strategic advice to CEOs and boards
Big Four strategy arms:
- Deloitte (Monitor Deloitte), PwC (Strategy&), EY (EY-Parthenon), KPMG Strategy
- Combines strategic advice with implementation capabilities
- Larger graduate intakes, diverse service offerings
Smaller (boutique) consulting firms:
- Small, specialised consulting firms that focus on niche areas or industries
- Typically independent or privately owned, with fewer employees than large firms
- Offer highly tailored services and deep expertise in specific domains
Internal/in-house strategy teams:
- Providing corporate development and strategic planning within large organisations including: FTSE 100 companies, government departments, NGOs
- In house roles can offer direct impact on organisational direction
Job roles and progression
Entry level (Analyst/Associate):
- Focus: Data analysis, market research, client interview support
- Example responsibilities: Building presentation resources for client, financial modelling
Mid-level (Senior Associate/Consultant):
- Focus: Client interaction, workstream leadership
- Example responsibilities: Hypothesis development, recommendation synthesis
- At least two to four years of previous relevant professional experience is generally required for direct entry at this level
Routes in
Graduate programmes:
- Direct entry from university (most common route)
- Structured two-year programmes with rotations and training
- Firms require academically strong candidates who can evidence teamwork and problem solving skills and an innovative mindset.
Experienced hire:
- Industry experience (typically at least three years)
- Functional expertise (finance, operations, technology)
- Exec MSc/MBA programmes can provide a transition pathway
Internships and insight programmes:
- Summer internships (10-12 weeks) with conversion opportunities
- Spring insight weeks for first-year undergraduates
- Essential for building credibility and network
When should I apply for roles in this sector?
Timeline for graduate roles in the UK
- September to November: Research firms, attend careers fairs and other employer events
- October to December: Applications open and close (varies by firm)
- November to February: Assessment centres, final rounds and offers made
Timeline for internships in the UK
- October to December: Applications typically open
- January to March: Interview process
- January to April: Offers for summer programmes
Note: Some firms recruit on rolling basis, others have specific deadlines. Always check via individual organisation websites to for the current information on recruitment timelines and processes.
Insight from alumni and organisations
What skills are needed or sought after in this sector?
Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Structured thinking and hypothesis-driven analysis
- Comfort with quantitative data and financial concepts
- Ability to break down complex problems into manageable components
Communication and presentation
- Clear, concise written and verbal communication
- PowerPoint proficiency and data visualisation
- Confidence presenting to senior stakeholders
Leadership and teamwork
- Experience managing projects and leading teams
- Collaborative approach while maintaining individual accountability
- Adaptability to different client cultures and environments
Commercial acumen
- Understanding of business fundamentals and market dynamics
- Interest in current affairs and industry trends
- Intellectual curiosity and continuous learning mindset
Are there any key trends to be aware of in this sector?
- Sustainability and ESG: Growing demand for climate strategy and social impact consulting
- Digital transformation: Technology integration across all industries with a focus on AI
- Implementation focus: Clients increasingly want "hands-on" delivery, not just recommendations
- Specialisation: Rise of sector-specific and functional boutiques
- Flexible working: Hybrid models reducing traditional travel requirements
Where can I find out more about working in this sector?
Interested in finding out more about a career in consultancy?
Here are some helpful links, including the ways LSE Careers can work with you on your journey.
LSE Careers resources:
External resources:
Larger companies will advertise graduate programmes via their websites.
Some additional resources for specialist/sector specific/experienced hire consultancy roles are listed below:
Specialist consulting job boards
Specialist recruitment agencies
General job boards with strong consulting sections
Boutique/specialised consulting recruiters