Oliver Wyman Interview (Excel Model Case?)

Question

I've just been scheduled an interview with OW.

The first round is a 30 minute case interview, and the second round is a 90 minutes case model interview.

Other than general case practices, what would be some ways I can practice for both rounds? (e.g. Does OW stress on calculations / quick math? For the excel model, what skills am I expected to perform?)

Thank you all in advance!

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the invitation from Oliver Wyman!

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

First of all, for the case study interview, I would advise you to prepare for it the same way you would do for any other consulting firm.
Moreover, for the case model interview, I would advise you to practice using MS Excel for basic modeling tasks, like data analysis and building simple financial models.

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 for your upcoming Oliver Wyman interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hi there,

For the normal case, the same principles apply as for any other case interview with different firms.

Your interviewers are interested in your

Problem deconstruction and creativity (Framework and brainstorming)
Analytics (Charts and math)
Communication

You want to build the skillset needed for a consultant already before the interviews to get the chance of an offer.

Make sure to learn how to approach this parts in terms of steps, thinking, and communication, then practice.

For the Excel case, you need to make sure to build a clean and accurate model:

A couple of steps:

Clean the data: Make sure to work with clean data (no mistakes, duplicates removed, etc.)
Analyze the data: Summarize, filter, and categorize the data using functions like Pivot Tables, INDEX MATCH and VLOOKUP. Showcase a logical, structured approach to solving problems using functions like IF, AND, and decision trees.
Check your analysis: Ensure data accuracy by double-checking formulas and using error-checking tools like IFERROR.
Visualize the data: Present data effectively using charts and graphs.
EXTRA STEP: Scenario modeling: Build scenarios and projections using to test different business conditions. Makes you stand out!
Communicate your insights: Summarize findings clearly and concisely, top-down, numbered and signposted.

All the best!

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hey there!

For both Oliver Wyman (and Inverto), focusing on Excel modeling is key. Besides practicing typical case math, you should also brush up on Excel basics like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, scenario analysis, and financial modeling skills.

An out-of-the-box tip: try building small, custom models using data you find online, or use templates designed for consultants. You can also check out specific materials related to Inverto's process to see if there are differences that could help you better prepare. Reach out to peers or coaches who've gone through both firms for more insights on the specific demands of these interviews.

Hope this helps! Alessa :)