Social Sector, Impact Consulting

Question

I am interested in working for MBB. Based on my qualifications and experience, a Junior Associate will be the highest position I can currently get. Say, I am interested in working at McKinsey in the Social Sector. Is it possible to join McKinsey (or BB) and directly choose your industry? Or do you have to start as a generalist, in this lower-end position?
Also, if I as a person do not like a company/client due to ethical concerns can I refuse to work on a specific project?

Thanks

Answer 1

Hi there,

At the lower end you do indeed need to start as a generalist. Obviously this doesn't apply for GAMMA/Platinion/Black/Digital. Starting at the Associate/Consultant level is when you begin to get on the specialisation track

That said, you're absolutely allowed to express your interest, and this is also a great networking tactic! Make sure to also apply to those more specialized firms that do work in the Social/Impact sector.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Hi there!

Great to hear you have such a precise target.

In short, most offices don't offer entry level or junior roles that are specifically for impact / social sector consulting. My recommendation would be to reach out to the recruiter in your target office and ask whether there are any specific opportunities in this area just to make sure.

Otherwise, apply for generalist roles and once you're inside the firm then you can start making inroads towards your preferred topic. Generally, after the first 6-12 months staffing becomes a lot easier and more a reflection of what you're actually interested in doing.

Aside from this, I'd suggest you look into international development consulting firms e.g., Adam Smith International. I've coached a couple of candidates in this area and the interview tend to be rather similar to management consulting ones - so these applications won't require significant additional preparation.

Best,
Cristian

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Answer 3

Hi,

Also, if I as a person do not like a company/client due to ethical concerns can I refuse to work on a specific project?

Depending of the firm, you have some leeway in choosing the projects you'd like to work on. For example, when you start at McKinsey, you receive a list of the ongoing projects and you can pick those you'd like to join and also those projects that you don't want to participate in.

Although, it's not good if you reject projects too often, since you may end up in a situation when nobody at the firm wants to work with you and you may get laid off as a result.

Regards,
Nick