Management consultants help organisations solve problems, improve their performance, and achieve their objectives. They work with companies of all sizes across different industries, providing expert advice on areas such as strategy, operations, HR, IT, and finance. Consultants may work for large consultancy firms, smaller specialist practices, or as independent freelancers. The role often involves analysing business processes, conducting research, presenting recommendations, and supporting the implementation of new strategies. Management consultants need excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, and the work can be fast-paced and varied, sometimes requiring travel to client sites.
The average salary for a management consultant in the UK is approximately £50,000 per year, with experienced consultants earning over £80,000.
There are around 20,000 management consultancy firms in the UK, with thousands of new positions advertised annually.
Many large management consultancy firms recruit graduates, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from £28,000 to £35,000.
Works with organisations to develop long-term business strategies, helping them achieve competitive advantage and growth.
Focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of a company's internal processes and operations.
Advises organisations on people management, including recruitment, training, employee engagement and workplace policies.
Focus on subjects such as Maths, Business Studies, Economics, or English to build analytical and communication skills.
Strong academic performance at GCSE and A-level will help you access top universities and degree courses. Subjects like Maths and Economics develop problem-solving skills, while English or Business Studies improve your ability to communicate effectively. Many management consultants come from diverse academic backgrounds, but a foundation in these subjects is beneficial.
Apply for a degree in Business, Economics, Management, or a related subject at a recognised university.
Most management consulting firms require at least a 2:1 degree. While degrees in Business, Economics, or Management are common, consultancy firms also value STEM degrees, Law, or Social Sciences. Consider universities with strong links to employers and excellent careers services.
Apply for internships or summer placements at consulting firms or in business-related roles.
Internships provide valuable insight into the consulting industry and allow you to develop skills such as teamwork, analysis, and client communication. Many top consulting firms offer structured summer internships, which can sometimes lead to a graduate job offer. Experience in other business settings, such as finance or project management, is also beneficial.
Join business, consulting, or entrepreneurship societies at university to build leadership and teamwork skills.
Taking an active role in societies or group projects helps you develop transferable skills highly valued by employers. You might organise events, lead teams, or take part in business competitions and case studies. These experiences provide practical examples to discuss during interviews.
Apply to graduate roles at management consulting firms or strategy consulting divisions.
Major consulting firms such as McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and PwC offer graduate schemes that include comprehensive training and mentoring. The application process is competitive and typically involves online tests, interviews, and case study exercises. Smaller firms and specialist consultancies may also offer entry-level roles.
Continue to build your skills through on-the-job experience and consider professional development courses.
As you progress, you can pursue additional qualifications such as the Chartered Management Consultant Award or an MBA. These qualifications can help you advance your career and move into more senior positions. Networking, attending industry events, and seeking mentorship are also important for long-term success.
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 is most similar to a management consultant because both roles focus on analysing organisational issues, improving business performance, and providing strategic advice. The core skills of problem-solving, strategic planning, and client management are common to both, making them closely aligned in terms of qualifications.
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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