Getting into back offices of T2 consulting firms

Question

So I am currently doing my second year of BCom (in India , from a not so great institute). I aspire to get into back office analytics roles at T2 consulting firms , get some workex and do an Indian MBA later on to get into front end consulting.

How will working in these back offices help my transition and what do they look for in candidates - skills or pedigree?

Answer 1

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

First of all, unfortunately, working in support functions will only give you limited exposure to the consulting playbook. Still, you may be able to build an internal network that can support you later for consulting roles after your MBA.
Moreover, for support functions as well, what matters are both skills and pedigree. To get more detailed insights from your target consulting firms, I would strongly advise you to reach out to employees working in the exact functions you aspire.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hi there,

Honestly, I'm not sure it will.

There are probably more optimal paths, but I would need a full session to understand your profile, strengths, interests, situation, and realistic options before advising you on the best route.

Also, be careful: this is basically a ten year plan. It is good to plan, but this is quite rigid. A back office role, work experience, an Indian MBA, and then front end consulting involve several uncertain steps. Any one of them could change.

Focus on choosing the best next step, not locking in your entire career today.

Answer 3

Hey there :)

A back office analytics role can definitely help, especially if you use it to build strong analytical, problem solving and business skills. It can give you a much better platform for an eventual move into consulting than a completely unrelated role.

That said, I wouldn’t assume that an internal move to front end consulting will happen automatically. For your plan, the strongest combination would be relevant analytics experience, strong performance, leadership and then a good MBA. Pedigree still matters in recruiting, but strong skills and measurable impact can make a real difference.

I’d also target roles that are genuinely close to strategy or client work, rather than purely operational reporting roles. Those will give you a much stronger story when you apply for consulting later.

Best, Alessa :)

Answer 4

Hi,

Back office work doesn't really help alot, especially if you are aiming for a top MBA like IIM.

The harsh reality is that consulting is that competitive, and India specifically is extremely competitive.

Instead, I think a better path would be to try and get a consultant role at a smaller boutique or T3 firm or even T2 firm first.

All the best!