After graduating from college I started my career as a secretary at a foreign company. Working there in my fourth year, I saw the job opening for the executive assistant (EA) role at McKinsey completely by chance. Although not being on a consultant career path, having heard of McKinsey’s reputation, I applied for the position as I wanted to learn what kind of experience I would get working as a non-consultant for a professional-services firm.
Working for several years now, I still remember vividly the very first month after I joined. It was exciting to work with new people but there was some concern on my part whether I could survive and work well in a truly global environment. I learned much from other EAs who were talented in many ways, juggling various tasks not only to support partners but often stretched well beyond such secretarial duties. They helped me to settle down and fit in so I was able to function as one of them.
Unique working culture
Over the last six years I have enjoyed working with a great group of people. Unlike many companies, McKinsey is a nonhierarchical organization. Thus, I am able to work with others as part of a team rather than in the relationship of subordinates and superiors. I think that this environment helps me work more independently, take ownership of my work, and be more efficient.
Supporting the office manager has given me great exposure to other colleagues around the world, and such interaction has taught me to appreciate everyone’s experience at the firm. I don’t work with clients day-to-day onsite, but I believe my support is crucial to those that do as I am contributing to client impact behind the scenes.
Education