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Hi all, 

I am interested in applying to be a sus tainability consultant. I am not sure if I need to get certifications prior to applying And what background is needed.
I was also wondering which companies would be good to apply to for this field in Middle East? And how competitive is it compared to management consultant . 

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Top answer
on Jan 16, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach | top MBB coach

Hi there, 

That's a great aspiration to have. As I've told other candidates aiming for the same role, knowing that your work will have a positive impact on the world is going to make it easier to go through the long hours :)

First of all, sustainability consultant and management consultant don't have to be different. You can be a management consultant specialising in sustainability topics. Basically, the name of management consultant rather refers to a set of skills and a certain type of work, not so much an industry. 

Second, in terms of firms, all major firms out there offer sustainability roles by know. To start with, check McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Roland Berger, Oliver Wyman, Kearney, EY, PwC, Deloitte, etc.. The important thing is to start creating an application strategy to carry you through this process in a methodical way - happy to help you with that. 

Here are also three articles that I wrote that can help you learn more about the industry:

Best,

Cristian

Ian
Coach
on Jan 16, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

I highly recommend you get googling + networking to find the best companies for you. MBB, the Big Four, and other major consultancies are likely to have some options here.

From a google myself some companies that may be a good fit include Majid Al Futtaim, Emaar, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company. 

Certifications/relavant experience always helps.

Here's a case I've just completed on Sustainability: https://www.preplounge.com/en/management-consulting-cases/candidate-led-usual-style/intermediate/hunger-warriors-270

I suggest you read this here: https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-shift-your-mindset-to-ace-the-case

That said, If you want sustainability topics/cases, read BCG Insights and McK Insights! they have entire sustainability sections…they're literally cases.

Some examples:

  • O&G company moving into renewables
  • Tech company aiming to be net carbon neutral
  • Large firm looking to increase female representation in exec roles
  • A retail company looking to ensure their supply chain is flexible/adaptable in face of climate change
  • Food producer looking to minimize deforestation
  • Food producer looking to minimize water use

If you'd like to work through the frameworks for any of the above (and dozens of other prompts/frameworks I've created), feel free to reach out!

Every single one needs its own approach/framework.

Hagen
Coach
edited on Jan 15, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

  • Certifications: While certifications are not always necessary to become a sustainability consultant, they can be helpful in demonstrating your knowledge and skills in the field. Additionally, you may want to consider a degree in a related field such as environmental science, sustainability, or engineering.
  • Background: A background in sustainability, environmental science, or engineering can be beneficial for a career in sustainability consulting. However, many sustainability consultants come from a variety of backgrounds such as business, economics, or law. It's important to have a good understanding of sustainability principles and practices, as well as strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Companies: Some consulting firms that have a strong presence in sustainability consulting in the Middle East include McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, and Deloitte.
  • Competition: The competition for sustainability consultant positions may not be significantly different compared to traditional strategy consulting positions. Both fields tend to attract highly qualified and ambitious candidates, and the selection process is rigorous.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

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