Medical Doctor with an MBA to consulting

Hello Ankit!! Doctor + MBA is one of the best combinations to seek a MBB position. I’ve seen firsthand that life sciences practices prioritize staffing doctors above anyone else of similar tenure. I recommend you prepare very well your story of why consulting and what you’re bringing to the table (you know your story well, but there’s a magic when you practice it 10 times out loud in front of someone, to hit all the points they want to hear). And most especially, prepare cases that are not life sciences related, because you will for sure get a random case (even if you join life sciences practice especifically) and that’s where you show you can think estructurally and are able to extract insights and impressions from a variety of themes. If you come prepared you’ll do great!! 

Hi Ankit,

First of all, congratulations on your career trajectory thus far!

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

• Since you asked how to prepare and eventually succeed in your future application processes, I would strongly advise you to reach out to an experienced coach like me to develop a preparation plan and assess your current level of readiness. While there are many reasons candidates may be rejected, you really don’t want lack of preparation to be the reason for your rejection.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre‑interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to make the transition from medicine + MBA to consulting, and you’re already on a solid path.

You’ve got three strong points working for you:

1. Unique background – Medical doctors with business training bring a rare and valuable perspective, especially for healthcare or life sciences projects.
2. Brand name experience – Johnson & Johnson is well-recognized globally, and it adds credibility, especially for offices outside India.
3. MBA from IIMK – While not a typical MBB feeder, it still carries weight, especially when paired with strong networking and a compelling story.

That said, to strengthen your position:

• Build a strong narrative: Make sure you have a clear, concise “Why consulting?” and “Why now?” that links your clinical, business, and leadership experience.
• Target smartly: Consider MBB offices in India, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where your background is more likely to be valued and your profile may be more competitive.
• Refine your case and fit prep: The bar is high, and since your path is non-traditional, strong case performance will really help close any perceived gaps.

Happy to help you shape your story and prepare for the cases when you’re ready.

Hi Ankit,

Your background as a doctor with an MBA from IIMK and experience at J&J is a strong foundation for MBB consulting. Here’s how to move forward:

1. Sharpen Your Narrative

You need a clear “Why Consulting” story that ties together:

• Your clinical experience (analytical thinking, resilience)
• Your MBA (business foundation, leadership)
• Your J&J role (corporate exposure, strategic insight)

2. Bridge Any Gaps

Focus on:

• Case prep – Get strong in structured problem-solving and mental math
• Business fluency – Emphasize impact in commercial/strategic projects at J&J
• Communication – Practice clear, client-ready storytelling

3. Network Smartly

Leverage:

• IIMK and J&J alumni in MBB
• LinkedIn to connect with ex-medical consultants
• Ask for advice, not referrals—referrals often follow good conversations

4. Case Interview Prep

You’ll need to:

• Master case types (profitability, market entry, M&A)
• Practice frameworks, math, and synthesis
• Use platforms like PrepLounge or case with coaches regularly

5. Apply Strategically

Target:

• Generalist roles in India or global offices
• Healthcare-focused teams where your profile is a differentiator

Final Thought

With the right story, strong case prep, and targeted applications, MBB is absolutely within reach. 

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out.

Best,
Evelina

You could maybe consider trying to join a firm with a strong life sciences practice that would allow you to leverage your previous experience like OW.

Hi there,

I've worked with multiple doctors who transitioned into MBB, so feel free to reach out directly. 

Most consulting firms are keen on recruiting doctors because the education and career path you've been on until now signal excellence and potential to them. 

What is critical, though, is how you present your profile, and this is where most doctors struggle. Specifically, it's about the CV but also how you present your experience to date - it's important that you highlight as clearly as possible what consulting-like experiences you've had within your medical work (i.e., situations that you were in as a doctor that resemble the sort of situations you're likely to be in as a consultant). 

Best,
Cristian 

It’s absolutely possible through off cycle recruiting.

McK in particular has loads of ex-medics in its Life Sciences practice. 

Let me know if helpful to chat more