How to build your CV for MBB after 1.5 years of unemployment

Question

Hi all,

I graduated from University College London (major target school) in 2022 with 3.4GPA, I've undertaken several internships during and after university. For the past 1.5 years, I have been unemployed and worked in a customer service role to fill this time, I also built a 'startup' (Chrome Extension) in this time. Recently, I started a new full-time job at a industry-leading firm in insurance as an Operations Analyst.

Realistically, after how long would I have a strong enough CV to reapply for MBB?

N.B. I've had interviews at Tier 2 firms before.

I am aiming for MBB in London, Nordic region, Middle East, Australia or in USA.

Any advice would be much appreciated!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Your UCL degree, internships, and now the Ops Analyst role give you a good foundation. The 1.5-year gap is not ideal, but it’s not a deal-breaker if you frame it well (customer service + building a Chrome Extension = resilience, initiative, and continuous skill-building).

To strengthen your CV for MBB:

Stick in your current role for at least 12–18 months. This shows stability and progression after the gap.
Push for measurable impact. Highlight efficiencies, cost savings, or process improvements in Ops Analyst role.
Leverage the startup. Even if small, position it as entrepreneurial drive + technical skills.
Tier 2 pathway. If MBB doesn’t happen right away, a Tier 2/Big 4 Strategy stint is a strong stepping stone.

Realistically, after 1–2 years in your current role with clear achievements, your CV should be competitive again.

I recently helped a candidate land a strategy consulting job after over a year of unemployment, so feel free to reach out if you’d like me to support you on framing and prep.

Best,
Evelina