What is the best way to get into Strategy Consulting from Management consulting in Finance (PwC)

consulting CV interviews management strategy
New answer on Feb 28, 2021
7 Answers
1.1 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Feb 26, 2021

Hi everyone I am 24 and I recently graduated with MSc in Global Finance from Fordham University NY, and I also have a Master's Degree in Corporate finance From LUISS Rome (both top 1%). I had a little experience in financial advisory and corporate finance (small firm, 6 months internship), then I did an off-cycle internship in asset Management as Equity analyst. I have recently accepted an offer from PwC management consulting in finance (CFO services, 6 months internship). I applied for MBB, but also Kearney, I did not pass the CV screening. (My Cv has been reviewed by consultants) Any suggestions to get noticed? Is it still possible to switch to strategy? What am I missing?

Overview of answers

Upvotes
  • Upvotes
  • Date ascending
  • Date descending
Best answer
Ian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 26, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

A few things stand out to me

1) CV - I'm not sure who reviewed it, but send it to me...I'll check that it's optimal

2) Networking - before applying, aim to network a bit (even if it doesn't result in a formal referral, at least try to get put in touch with HR)

3) You're right next door to Strategy&! Once inside PwC, network your way around, get to know people, build a good reputation, and in 1-2 years look to move internally via connections

4) MBA - always a good route to take to get funneled directly into the recruiting pipeline.

Good luck!

Was this answer helpful?
Anonymous replied on Feb 26, 2021

I would recommend to network! CV screening can be somewhat random at times and having an internal referral greatly increases your chances of getting invited to an interview.

Reach out to friends of friends, colleagus, alums of your schools and bind with them. Show genuine interest and impress them. Don't ask them at upfront if they can referr you internally. This will develop with a few conversations. Once you have securred a referral, an interview is all but guaranteed (unless your profile is wildly out of whack - which it doesn't seem to be).

Was this answer helpful?
15
Gaurav
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 28, 2021
Ex-Mckinsey|Certified Career Coach |Placed 500+ candidates at MBB & other consultancies

Hi there,

Agree with the coaches - CV check by a professional, NETWORK, then try again :)

If you want and have time/chance for it - MBA, but it doesn't guarantee an entrance into consulting.

Good luck!

Cheers,

GB

Was this answer helpful?
Adi
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 26, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience

Has your CV not passed screening at many firms?

You seem to have the right things- education & internships. I guess its a matter of being persistent, patient and putting forward a strong application (CV, Cover Letter & referral). Referrals are important really to get through the pile. COVID situation is still not easy for firms plus market is competitive too, but be persistent & positive in your approach.

All the best!

Was this answer helpful?
Clara
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 28, 2021
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Agree w Antonello, thinking of an MBA for just the chance to MAYBE shift to consulting is a bit too extreme. Makes more sense to leverage your network first.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Was this answer helpful?
Antonello
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 27, 2021
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi, before longer strategies like doing an MBA I recommend working for a referral, leveraging PwC/your university alumni now in top tiers.

Best
Antonello

Was this answer helpful?
Raj
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Feb 28, 2021
FREE 15MIN CONSULTATION | #1 Strategy& / OW coach | >70 5* reviews |90% offers ⇨ prep-success.super.site | MENA, DE, UK

Feel free to PM me, and I can advice you on how this will work at PwC. Is this for the NY office?

Was this answer helpful?
Ian gave the best answer

Ian

Content Creator
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
1,094
Meetings
77,107
Q&A Upvotes
232
Awards
5.0
150 Reviews
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely