Implementation consulting firm

Hi,

I would not agree with Ian here:

1. MBB does a lot of projects, not just strategy. Strategy = only ˜30% of projects
2. The reason why MBB is doing less implementation is simple - they are more expensive
3. MBB is hiring candidates with various backgrounds, even non-business ones. Your background fits well
4. MBB is still doing a lot of implementation projects. You can either apply as a generalist or as an implementation expert.
5. If you are applying as an implementation expert, your salary might be lower and career track slower, since MBBs are trying to make these low-cost solutions to the client. So if there is a way for you to apply as a generalist - I would do so. However, applying as an implementation expert, you have more chances of getting an offer.

Best

Hi Mehrasa,

Strategy consulting firms do strategy work. Management firms do management consulting. Please don't overcomplicate this.

MBB = Strategy

Big Four = Management (EY, PwC, Deloitte, KPMG) AND Strategy (EY Parthenon, Strategy&, Monitor Deloitte, KPMG)

Other Tier 2 = it depends...i.e. OW, Kearney, RB, and your classical strategy firms do strategy work

If you have done implementation for a long time, but want to move into strategy, your best approach is to apply for an expert track. The most common here is Tech/IT consultants (implementation) going in as Project Lead for BCG Digital, McKinsey Digital, etc. That said, you see it across Healthcare, Energy etc. etc.

Hi,

That's a good question!

There is a vivid line between strategy and implementation, but it is gradually disappearing. I mean that MBB are now developing their implementation capabilities so you'll find yourself working on both strategy and implementation projects.

As long as it is relevant, and it is, your work experience will be valuable for the top consultancies.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Antonello

Dear Mehrasa, today implementation is a very relevant part of the Tier I service spectrum. Albeit not every project includes implementation (e.g. there's still a good amount of due diligences, strategy assessments, etc. that are very non-operational), many clients expect consultancies to also implement their measures nowadays. In fact, some of the largest projects include at least 80% implementation.

So, without knowing any further details, I would say that generally speaking your background might be somewhat interesting for consultancies (if you can show that you can also do conceptual / strategic thinking in the interviews) depending on a couple of other factors-- at least it's not a deal-breaker! I actually have seen some Tier I consultants that were cross-hired from implementation roles. Hope that helps!

(edited)

Vlad is spot on!

Hi Mehrasa!

First of all, your background fits both tier 1 and tier 2. As long as your profile is strong, you manage to get a referral and perform well at the interview, you have great chances to get to those firms.

MBB deal not only with strategy, but implementation as well, so there definitely be projects to your liking. That said, showing strategic thinking during the interviews would be really great, so prepare thoroughly.

Good luck!

GB

Hi,

I only do two strategy projects in my first tenure in BCG (3 years) the rest are overall transformation that include implementation projects. They will less frequently do a specific implementation projects simply because of cost.

I don't see any issue from your profile to apply to MBB or tier 2 consulting firm. The most important things are networking to get referral, strength of CV and your performance during case interview.

Best,
Iman

Hello!

There is a common believe that MBBs do only strategy, when it´s not true. A huge part -and the fun one, in my opinion- is purely implementation!

Hope it helps!

Best,

Clara