McKinsey India

Why McKinsey

When I was enrolled in business school after completing my tenure in one of the Indian army's elite special forces units, I wanted to join an organisation that was comparable to my battalion with respect to its leadership-nurturing environment, strong values, and high degree of professionalism. I also wanted to help in solving some of the most challenging problems of our times. McKinsey was all that and more.

Most rewarding experiences

When I joined McKinsey, I presumed that I would spend most of my time creating strategies that I personally would never see hit the ground. I was surprised and delighted when many of my projects required me to roll up my sleeves and help execute and deliver impact—expediting the construction of a petroleum refinery, rolling out a private banking model for a leading Indian bank, etc. Though I have had the opportunity to work across sectors—oil and gas, steel, pharma, financial services—the most fulfilling work for me was working on a social-sector project for a nonprofit organisation to address critical health issues for underprivileged women and children.

Another project close to my heart is a sales-acceleration project for a nonbanking financial company. It involved hundreds of hours of personal and group problem solving, coaching, and motivating, but once we won over the client with our solution, the sales juggernaut started rolling. The client still treats me as though I am part of their organisation and even sent an official representative to attend my wedding!

Growing professionally and personally

The personal and professional growth and learning that I got at the firm will always stand me in good stead to fulfill any future aspirations—I can move into any field with equal ease and finesse. I attribute much of this to our relentless focus on problem solving and structured communication. I have three mentors in the India office (another firm best practice), who constantly coach both my work at the firm and my own long-term aspirations. The firm even encouraged me to switch to senior implementation coach in McKinsey Implementation because they saw it aligned with my passions and strengths.

Why join

McKinsey India is the finest leadership laboratory in the country. It is agnostic to educational backgrounds and has consultants from all fields—engineers, accountants, lawyers, doctors, and army officers like me. If you reach out to the McKinsey network, you will be amazed to see how far the fraternity will reach to bring you in!

Education