6 years experience, move from government to MBB

You have a great profile! There are many people who make the move from government into MBB. Generally if you've got less than two years you go in at the entry (post undergrad) level - you'll go in as an Associate (i.e., post MBA, individual contributor level). You don't go in as a manager as there is a whole new way of working to learn. 

However, what this masks is how quickly you can progress. The firms are slightly different in whether you progress at your own pace, which can be faster (i.e., McKinsey); or whether you progress based on time at level (i.e., Bain). With a ton of work experience you can expect to progress faster at a firm that has individual-led progression.

I made a similar move although at a slightly more junior level - 2 years in the UK government and then into McKinsey; and have friends who joined after 5+ years in government. Your experience is hugely valued, particularly for the firms which are building their public sector practices. I'd recommend speaking with their expert recruitment teams - they're always interested to receive CVs.

You haven't mentioned whether your degree is Masters/Bachelors. From your work experience, you need to specifically identify which skills are transferrable to a consulting set-up and craft a pitch around it. Lastly, it is not as much about your rolodex as it is about the skill to effectively work with senior stakeholders, or even network with them 

Hey Rob,

Great profile and experience. You will definitely be valued at MBB. However, with regard to your specific question, MBBs will likely offer you an Associate level and not above considering (a) 6 years of non-consulting experience (in fact many MBAs joining from B-schools at Associate level would have a similar experience) and (b) you are not looking to move into the public sector where you have most of your experience. 

Hope this helps

Thanks

Ashwin 

Hello,

Sounds like you have an excellent profile! I would suggest you start networking with people at firms you are interested in applying to, express your interest, and see what roles they think are most fitting given your profile. Based on what you have put here, I think your best bet would be post-MBA roles (Associate/Senior Associate), or an expert track position within the public sector practice. Depending on how transferrable the skills from your current role are, you may be able to go for a Project Leader/Engagement Manager role. But again, I definitely suggest starting by expressing interest, and having a conversation about this with people from HR.

Hi Rob,

You've got a great profile! You'd come in as an Associate/Consultant.

Make sure to tailor your resume to consulting (word choice, experiences, etc.) and network extensively to optimize your chances of getting your foot in the door!

I’ve seen post-MBA roles for people joining with your profile.  For example, Associate at McKinsey.

You have a great profile. The best thing to do would be to leverage your network to get a referral at any MBB and then interview for the best role. I think an Associate position would be ideal for someone with your background. They are very good at promoting folks quickly that meet the manager bar so you won't really be taking a step back for too long.

Best,

Udayan