Hi everyone,
I’m currently preparing my applications for MBB and possibly Big 4 strategy practices, and I’d really appreciate your advice on which office location I should target.
A bit about my background:
- Originally French, but have lived internationally for the past 14 years (Thailand, Hong Kong, USA).
- ~8 years of professional experience in hospitality management, with leadership roles in five-star luxury hotels across Asia and the USA.
- My work has focused on operations, P&L management, team leadership, and client experience.
- Academically, I hold a B.B.A in Hotel and Resort Management from a well-recognized program, and I will soon start my MBA at INSEAD (January intake).
Languages:
- French (native)
- English (fluent, bilingual)
- Thai (fluent, bilingual)
Personal considerations for office choice:
I’m very open to international opportunities, but I’d like to balance professional growth with lifestyle and long-term career goals.
My initial shortlist includes:
- Hong Kong → proximity to immediate family and long-term career stability. However, the current economic climate is less favorable, and my lack of Mandarin/Cantonese could be a limitation, as many projects still require those skills.
- Sydney → attractive given proximity to immediate family and lifestyle appeal. That said, the office is smaller and recruitment may be more challenging due to visa/work permit requirements.
- Singapore → one of the largest offices in Asia with strong regional outreach, excellent career growth potential, and robust exit opportunities (PE, VC, corporate HQs). However, recruitment is highly competitive, and I don’t currently have work authorization. On the plus side, the strong INSEAD alumni presence in Singapore may help.
- Bangkok → a very familiar location, having spent 10+ years in Thailand and speaking the language fluently. This makes me a good cultural fit. That said, the office is smaller, which means fewer recruitment slots and possibly narrower project variety.
Through networking, I’ve also been advised to consider:
- Middle East (Dubai, Doha) → large and fast-growing offices with strong exposure to public sector transformation and mega-projects. Very international environment where language is less of a barrier, plus financial benefits from tax-free income.
- Europe (Paris) → as a French national, language and cultural fit would be natural, and it offers long-term career stability. However, competition is very intense given the large pool of applicants.
My question:
For someone with my profile, which offices would you recommend I prioritize for MBB or Big 4 strategy practices? I’d love to hear perspectives on:
- Which offices are most open to international profiles / MBA hires.
- Where my background (hospitality leadership + MBA) could be a differentiator.
- Lifestyle and career progression considerations across these regions.
Thanks a lot in advance for your advice! Would especially love to hear from anyone with direct experience applying to or working in these offices.
