Moving from MBB London to Dubai/Singapore

Hi there,

Let's cut to the chase with your 3 bullets, all answered by the same sentence :)

Your best option by a mile is to stay with your current MBB firm and work your way towards an office transfer If your timeline is "a few years down the line" you can absolutely make this happen.

I've transfered a few times within companies and have the following advice:

 How do you snag an internal transfer?

1) Build a stellar reputation - do good work, work hard, and be known as "the guy/gal" for xx

2) Build your network - network agressively (yes, networking doesn't end once you've gotten the job offer). Make sure you're known by and have allies in people who make decisions such as staffing managers, Partners (specifically those responsible for recruiting/resources and who are heads of industry/function verticals), etc.

2) b). When I say network "aggressively" please don't be needy/annoying :) There's nothing worse than someone who is obviously working the room or trying to please!

3) Look out for opportunities - look for office transfers, short-term projects, ambassadorships, etc.). Transfers can have a range of "labels" :)

4) Practice patience and be flexible - This will take time. Once you "execute", you'll also need to be ready to go at the flip of a coin. But, of course, once you've made this decision I'm sure you will be!

Bide your time, keep pushing, be smart, and you'll get there!

Hi there,

1. I agree with the points mentioned by Vlad. The most important things are:

• do projects there
• create connections with partners
• perform well
• have solid reasons to move

You don’t necessarily need an MBA to do so, however both offices are very competitive. An MBA could help to compensate for some of the previous points if they are missing.

2. Better to stick to your current company and look for an internal transfer. I would look at other options only if that’s impossible

3. Better to stick to what listed in point 1. Also, Dubai used to be flexible in terms of visas, but Singapore is not. I helped a lot of people from INSEAD and many found it difficult to apply in Singapore even if they were studying here due to that.

Best,
Francesco

Hey, exact same question was asked a few weeks ago. Have a look at this thread: https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/moving-from-mbb-london-to-dubaisingapore-8400

If your main goal is to be closer to home, you can get there via many firms. By sticking to the  MBB route you are creating complexity for yourself. Obviously try that option, but keep others open.

Also, you dont need an MBA to recuit for firms in Dubai/Singapore. The two are not linked. You must have good reasons to do an MBA and not just to get hired by a specific firm in a specific geography- although this becomes part of a broader plan. Have a look at this thread too: https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/what-is-the-value-of-mba-and-how-do-i-differentiate-myself-against-my-colleagues-8197

Hello there!

Transfer to MBB Dubai would be easier, as Singapore is too competitive.

The steps to this could be the following:

1. Perform well in your current position
2. Build a good network
3. Find out about transfer.

Getting an MBA isn't necessary for it.

Do you need any further help?

GB

Hi,

1. MBA is not required. Try to a) Do projects in the region and get to know local partners b) be a top performer c) Have some valid reasons to move there

2. It'll be easier to transfer within the company. Don't overcomplicate it

3. Nope, I believe its a totally unnecessary step

Best

The short answer is - easiest to be within your current MBB firm in Asia given the network you have built. You will need to spend time building connections in Asia and for them to want you in their office. This is a much smoother transition than going anywhere else. Also my strong advice is not to go to T2 in Asia.

Hi,

Internal transfer is quite easy with several caveat:

1. You need to be a top performer so your destination office would be interested with you
2. You start establishing contacts with people in the destination office

Having said that, MBB SEA office is in general recruiting aggresively at the moment so you will have larger chance to transfer internally even without MBA.

Hello!

• Yes, easier to Dubai than Singy -at least in McK-. Taxes play a role there. No need for an MBA!
• No, I would say it´s better to mantain your offer and re-locate to capitalize on your prev. gains. 
• Not needed

Hope it helps!

Cheers, 

Clara

Clearest choice here would be an internal transfer. If anything you'll probably join at a higher level than you are at in London, plus your relocation expenses would be covered. That is by far the best option.