Erick, an implementation leader in Sao Paulo, joined McKinsey Implementation after spending about 12 years in operations with Gerdau. He’s fluent in three languages and holds a Professional Master Degree in Administration from FGV (EAESP) and a B.S, in Mechatronics Engineering from Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais.
Interviewer: Why did you join McKinsey Implementation in particular?
Erick: I wanted to change my career to a consulting and keep the ability to make things happen. I didn’t want to stop at giving recommendations; I love to see the impact as our advice is implemented. The best place to do that is within McKinsey Implementation.
Interviewer: What do you like most about the basic materials industry?
Erick: Many things – two stand out. First is the challenge to be creative. We’re working with commodities that have little differentiation between them, so we have to be resourceful. The second is the ability to have huge impact. Most engagements in basic materials are for BIG clients, so any improvement has a massive financial consequence.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to others considering joining McKinsey?
Erick: If you want to have an exciting job in which you do different things every day, learn about different industries and functions, and have fun, McKinsey is the place to come. As you’re applying, use the support the firm provides including practice cases and interview tips.
Interviewer: What are you passionate about outside of work?
Erick: I love spending time with my wife and friends eating good food (in a new restaurant or at home), drinking wine, and chatting. I’m also a runner aiming to complete the Dopey Challenge (5, 10, 21 and 42km in four consecutive days).
Learn more about opportunities to join Erick’s team as a senior implementation coach with our Global Energy and Materials practice in Brazil.