Strategy& vs Monitor Deloitte – Milan Financial Services: which offer to take?

Hi,

Besides questions 1 and 5, all the others will be better answered by HR or people from both companies.

For 1, they’re pretty similar in terms of reputation globally. For the fifth, the two will help you with MBA placement and job opportunities if combined with a solid resume and a good performance during the job.

I know it doesn’t help solve the abstract problem you placed, but now you can focus on the other questions ;-)

Good luck!

Best,

Mari

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the progress in the application processes with Strategy& and Monitor Deloitte thus far!

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

• First of all, I would strongly advise you to focus your energy on succeeding in the final interview rounds instead of pondering which offer to take. As long as you don't have both offers in your hand, this may be a rather hypothetical discussion.
• Moreover, and contrary to what other coaches have said, I would advise against optimizing your decision based on somewhat difficult-to-evaluate criteria, no matter how relevant they may be. Instead, I would advise you to talk to the recruiter about the hard facts like the compensation package after you have received the offer, and reflect on your experience with the two consulting firms. In my opinion, there is no meaning in deciding on one consulting firm over another just because of a seemingly slightly higher market reputation - besides, they're both well-respected consulting firms - when you felt much more like part of the team with the other.

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 final-round interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Congrats on getting this far with both firms!

Honestly, a high quality answer requires an in-depth market understanding. I think the best thing that you can do is reach out to current consultants at these firms and have a coffee chat with them. That, and of course, asking the actual recruiter for the more process-related questions. 

You might find this guide useful in terms of how to handle these coffee chats:

• Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals

Best,
Cristian

Hey there :)

If both offers come through, here's a quick comparison to help you:

Market reputation: Strategy& is often seen as more “pure strategy,” slightly stronger in high-level FS work with Italian banks. Monitor is growing fast in Milan, especially with ESG/digital themes.

Project type: Strategy& leans more toward strategy, op model, org design; Monitor often does more transformation, digital banking, ESG. So depends what excites you more.

Training: Monitor has Deloitte’s global training machine, strong structure. Strategy& has solid mentorship and steep learning, more boutique feel.

Culture & WLB: Monitor Milan is known for better work–life balance and strong local culture. Strategy& can be more demanding depending on the team.

Compensation: Strategy& usually pays slightly more (~1–2k higher base + stronger bonus). But both are competitive for Milan.

Exits: Similar for FS, banks, insurers, fintech. Strategy& may have an edge for top MBA apps due to stronger “strategy” branding.

If you want more strategy exposure early: go Strategy&.
If you're drawn to ESG/digital or want better WLB: Monitor.

Happy to chat more if both offers come in!

best,
Alessa :)