Hi Kenny,

If you are applying or obtaining to Mannheim WHU then you probably look for Germany. For this you have to speak German at least at B-2, C-1 level or higher. But everything is possible.

I've been also in your situation 8 years ago, and I've managed to get into consulting in all the targeted firms, including MBB.

So, if you need further advice, feel free to reach out.


Best,

André

Hi Kenny,

Is an MBA helpful in opening up new opportunities in consulting in Europe?

An MBA is 100% helpful in opening up opportunities period. This is through:

1. Access to employers directly through the school career department and the recruiting cycle
2. Bolstering of your resume
3. Networking with peers
4. Experiential learning programs/opportunities

Is an MBA worth it?

This entirely depends on your current situation (i.e. is your current experience + network enough? What is your current opportunity cost i.e. salary? etc.). Also, is it better to do an MBA or a more technical masters (i.e. to support your dreams of energy work)? This depends on the full breadth and depth of your prior experience.

If you'd like to talk more about how to best optimise your current resume and experiences to fit your future goals, feel free to reach out to me!

Is local language knowledge nececesary to get into consulting firms in that country?

It depends. Generally in Europe English is a must and the local language is a plus. There's a bit of an opposite correlation between how developed the country is and how important knowing the local language is. However, this is country-specific and you'd need to check with the HR department.

Hope this helps!

-Ian

(edited)

Hi Kenny,

in general you need to speak the local language in consulting in Europe – exceptions are the Netherlands and the Nordics or if you are hired as an expert. Since you mentioned you speak Japanese and Mandarin, why not target the Asian market? Otherwise your options would be limited to the previous areas plus the UK.

An MBA is definitely useful to land into consulting (the best in Europe are probably Insead and LBS), however it won’t fix your language issue. Also, you have to consider the trade-off between working 1-2 years in the sector (maybe you can network your way in) versus entering the sector completely new after the MBA.

Best,

Francesco

Hello Kenny,

Given your strong passion for Renewable Energy, my suggestion is to clarify first:

• Why do you want to enter consulting, specifically?
• How do you expect a job in consulting will match your interest in the above-mentioned field?

Let's assume you enroll to a 1-year MBA Program in Europe and you land a consulting job straight-after: it is unrealistic that you will be assigned to Renewable Energy projects in a short timeframe.

In case your primary goal is to work in the Renewable Energy domain, why don't you take into consideration a MS in Energy Management (specialization in finance, investment and consulting is available) instead of a MBA? Depending on the program, this would give you also access to internships or corporate opportunities, entering faster (and with proper means) in your desired field.

This does not prevent you, anyway, to apply for a MBA/EMBA program in future.

Best,

Alessandro

(edited)

Hi,

Great to hear about your passion. Regarding, the local language, this differs a lot in Western Europe and I would recommend contacting the HR departments.

Hi Kenny,

Maybe you can provide some more details about your background and what markets you are targeting.

For many markets in Europe today local languages is not likely to be a key requirement to get hired in a consulting firm. The most prominent examples would be the Netherlands and the Nordic countries.

Best,

A