Strategy& ME

Hi there,

Here are some key tips:

• Timing: Apply for full-time roles between August and October, earlier is better. Internships are mainly for students, so with 8 months of Big 4 experience, you're better off going for a direct hire position.
• Profile Fit: Strategy& ME looks for strong academics, analytical skills, and ideally some exposure to the Middle East. If you can get staffed on regional projects in your current firm, that helps.
• Networking: Reach out to current consultants via LinkedIn, especially those with a similar background. Ask about their path and seek advice.
• Preparation: Their interviews are case-based and often quant-heavy. Use CaseCoach, PrepLounge, and practice ME-specific topics like public sector transformation, energy, and Vision 2030-related work.
• Referral: A referral from someone inside the firm significantly boosts your chances — aim for this.
• CV: Make it sharp and impact-driven with clear, measurable outcomes.

If Strategy& is your top choice, treat the application like a project — be focused, consistent, and strategic. Let me know if you'd like help reviewing your CV or case prep - happy to help!

Best,

Evelina

Hi there,

1) What time to apply best?

I would look for a referral and, unless they are not hiring now or see issues with applying, proceed with the application after securing one. You will join at an entry-level position in any case with your seniority, even if you wait a few more months.

2) Should I consider joining as an intern as the process is easier and hope for full time after, will I be able to join as an intern after doing big 4 consulting for almost 8 months now? 

Most likely, you won’t be able to join as an intern if you already graduated and you are working full time - you can check with the person referring you.

Extra tip: I would not recommend targeting only one company. The preparation needed for case interviews is quite similar for all companies. Given you are going to invest time/money in the interview preparation process, you would be better off having a range of companies to target, so that you can land at least an offer (ideally Strategy&, which is your top choice). If you target one company only, there could be elements outside your control (eg, a hiring freeze) that could stop the process despite a very good preparation.

Good luck!

Francesco

1. As other coaches have said, your best bet is to secure a referral. You can network your way into one. That will give you the best chance of getting an interview. 

2. Internship is not an option if you already have full time professional experience - those spots are reserved for undergrads or MBA students. 

I understand that you are set on Strategy&, but the best move is probably to cast your net a bit wider. The odds of success when focusing on just one firm are always tough.

Hi there, 

From the bottom of my heart, I would recommend that you NOT focus your energy on only one application but to see your application strategy as a portfolio. 

Lots of candidates come directly to me often because they want McKinsey and nothing else and I tell them the same thing. 

Regardless of your level of preparation, things can always go wrong in the interview, so it doens't make sense to bank it all on one firm. Especially since the prep process if very similar across firms. 

You might find this article helpful:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Then, regarding your question, yes, joining as an intern gives you better chances of getting in and then transitioning than joining full time.

Best,
Cristian