Moving from MBB in emerging market to T2 in developed market

Question

As the title says, would you ever consider leaving an MBB office in emerging market for a T2 office in a developed market? Especially after you have been recently promoted at MBB?

As crazy as it sounds, the move would enable me to do:

1) More interesting work (projects/areas I actually want to gain expertise in)

2) Projects in the region I want to do business in and grow network

3) Relocate to what is perceived a better place to live for me

Transfer within MBB isn't likely to ever happen and recruiting for another MBB would most likely involve going to an MBA first (does not hurt to try MBB now of course, but there are more T2 out there than other MBB and I see little value proposition for that MBB to hire a generalist out of an emerging market ), paying for it myself and then reapplying in the region where the school is (think LBS for instance and applying to London office)

This option would obviously involve a significant amount of money time and energy spent towards achieving it

Or would you potentially consider a 4th option, dropping consulting altogether and looking for an exit in developed market?

Answer 1

Hi,

Would need more specifics on your personal situation to give a more informed perspective, but here are some general thoughts:

“Transfer within MBB isn't likely to ever happen”
- I understand that market is tough now and many locations are cutting
- However this has historically been very feasible - I know of people within MBB in the past 2 years who have successfully transfered from developing market (e.g. SEA) to US
- One option is definitely to wait it out abit, and ultimately what is going to be the biggest driver is if you have someone with significant clout pull their weight for you
T2 developed markets vs MBB developing markets
- There is definitely a logic for this - some will argue that the standard or nature of work is ‘higher/better’ in developed markets (not entire false but also not really a nuanced POV)
- Ultimately what you are giving up is the MBB brand name, so you'll have to weigh how important that is to you in the mid-long term perspective
Dropping consulting altogether
- This is another feasible option, but it boils down to advisory vs non-advisory
- It may also be easier to get a role or move to the region through this option

They are all feasible options, but frankly it would depend on more specifics and nuances on your personal situation to get to some meaningful insights

Answer 2

Can you provide more context why a move within the firm isn't possible? I've never heard of that before and wondering if you're killing the best chance of a move before it happens.

Answer 3

Hi,

I would apply now for MBB in the new geography. Given your MBB background, I think that your odds are pretty good (with the necessary amount of networking, securing referrals, etc.)

If it does not work out, pursue an MBA and reapply (your banning period will be lifted by then).

I would personally avoid “trading down” from MBB to Tier 2.

Best regards,

Jorn

Answer 4

Hey there,

You have all the right reasons to move so I would definitely go for it. Also, you already have the MBB stamp on your resume which will benefit you in the future.

However, before you make the move I would put all cards on the table and discuss with HR, local partners, and partners in your target area. If you have a good reputation and standing in your firm, they might want to keep you and offer you a transfer. It's definitely worth taking a shot at.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 5

Your personal reasons to move to a new place seem quite important and maybe they should be enough.

You already have the MBB stamp on your CV. However, some T2 are not well considered by the job market at large. So be mindful of that, and ask for advice from mentors, recruiters, head hunters, etc.

It is important to consider also the possible career progression at this T2 firm.

Answer 6

Hi there,

Absolutely! You also failed to mention the likely increased income from the move as well.

It sounds like you'd like to do this…if so, go for it! At the very least interview with some firms, see what offers come along, and then make a decision then!

Answer 7

Sounds like a plan. I don't really see a negative. Although I wouldn't rule out trying to get in the other MBB, if yours is not willing to transfer you.

If you get into T2, you can always try to move again to MBB afterwards, if you wish to do so.