Management consultants help organisations improve their performance by analysing existing business problems and developing strategies for growth and improvement. They may work with a variety of clients, including large corporations, government departments, and charities, to address challenges such as organisational change, efficiency, cost reduction, and digital transformation. The role involves conducting research, gathering and analysing data, interviewing employees, and presenting recommendations to clients. Consultants often work on short-term projects and may need to travel frequently to meet clients. The career is well-suited to individuals who enjoy problem-solving, working in teams, and adapting to new industries and challenges.
Management consultants in the UK typically earn between £30,000 and £90,000 per year, with experienced consultants and managers often earning over £100,000.
There are over 60,000 management consultants working in the UK, with the industry generating over £12 billion in revenue annually.
Many major consulting firms in the UK run graduate schemes, offering hundreds of positions each year for recent university graduates.
Specialises in helping organisations develop long term plans to achieve their business goals, often working with senior leaders to set direction and priorities.
Focuses on supporting companies through periods of change, such as mergers or restructuring, ensuring staff adapt successfully to new ways of working.
Works with businesses to improve their day to day processes, making them more efficient and cost effective by analysing workflows and recommending improvements.
Focus on subjects like maths, economics, business studies, or English at GCSE and A Level.
Strong academic performance is important for a management consultant. Subjects such as maths and business studies help develop analytical and communication skills. Consider also taking part in extracurricular activities that demonstrate teamwork and leadership.
Pursue a degree in business, economics, management, or a related subject.
Most management consultants hold a degree. Top firms often require a 2:1 or above from a good university. Degree subjects such as business, economics, management, or even STEM subjects are preferred. Consider joining university societies related to business or consulting for networking opportunities.
Gain experience through internships, placements, or part time roles in consulting, business, or finance.
Many consulting firms offer summer internships or industrial placements for students. These experiences provide insight into the sector and help develop your analytical, communication, and teamwork skills. Volunteering or part time roles in business related areas can also be valuable.
Participate in activities that develop logical thinking, data analysis, and problem solving.
Consulting requires strong analytical skills. Take part in case study competitions, join a debating society, or use online platforms to practise business case interviews. Learning to use software like Excel or PowerPoint can also be helpful.
Apply to management consultancy firms or relevant business advisory roles.
Leading firms such as McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte, or Accenture run structured graduate schemes. Applications are competitive, so tailor your CV and cover letter, and prepare thoroughly for interviews and assessment centres. Highlight your analytical, teamwork, and communication skills.
Pursue further training or professional qualifications as you progress.
Many consultants continue learning through in house training, professional courses, or even postgraduate qualifications such as an MBA. This can help you specialise in areas like strategy, operations, or digital transformation, and progress to senior consultant roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Management Consultant. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A management consultant closely aligns with a management consultant because both roles involve analysing organisational problems, developing strategic solutions, and advising clients to improve business performance. They require strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, often across various industries and organisational functions.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
A postgraduate qualification, like a master's in business administration (MBA), may also be helpful.
You'll usually need:
You could apply for a place on a Junior Management Consultant Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, or Chartered Manager Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, and work your way up as your experience grows.
These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete.
You'll usually need:
You can apply directly to become a management consultant or set up your own business, if you've got relevant work experience in:
You may be able to join a graduate training scheme straight from university. Competition for places is strong, so it may help if you have:
Foreign language skills could be useful, as many firms work with international clients.
You can join the Institute of Consulting for career support and professional development.
You can find out more about careers in management consultancy from the Management Consultancies Association and the Chartered Management Institute.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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