After doing a PhD in computer science and spending several years exploring one subject in depth, I wanted to find a job that would offer breadth and expose me to different sectors and topics in the business world. I liked the idea of keeping doors open while I made up my mind about what I wanted to do with my career. And I wanted to work in other countries and meet people with different outlooks and backgrounds.
Choosing consulting
McKinsey offered both the breadth and the international opportunities I was looking for. As a member of the Business Technology Practice in Switzerland, I get plenty of opportunities to work abroad: in three years I’ve spent most of my time in the UK, Italy, France, Scandinavia, and the US, and done only one project at home. Every project is different, and it’s that variety that keeps me here. I’ve also had the chance to explore different industries, and I’ve discovered that I feel most at home in financial services.
Once I’d made the decision to become a consultant, the transition from academic to business life seemed to happen quite naturally. Having a PhD in computer science helps me quickly understand the challenges clients face on IT-related projects and gain their respect for my opinions.
Getting to grips with business
As a recruit with no experience of business, I started out by going on McKinsey’s mini-MBA course. It provides an intensive introduction to consulting and covers most of the topics you would study in a normal MBA. You spend a very lively and energetic three weeks with people from many different places who are all new to the firm. I’m still in touch with colleagues from my course and it’s always fun to catch up with what they are doing.
McKinsey also has extensive online training modules that you can use on your own to learn about specific topics. I like being able to prepare thoroughly for my next project so that I’m not just jumping into the water.
Stepping up
We also get a lot of help and support when we are progressing in our careers. To prepare for my promotion to engagement manager, I went on a three-day course covering best practices, relationship building, process management, and content management. We worked on simulated studies from beginning to end, role-played challenging situations, and learned what to look for when we’re managing a project.
As an engagement manager on a project you’re in the driving seat, responsible for leading problem solving, involving the client, managing and developing your team members, and managing other McKinsey resources. Your goal is to bring the best solution to the client while making the project a valuable experience for everyone concerned.
Making a real difference
One of the great things about the Business Technology Practice is that no matter what topic you work on, it’s always something that ranks high on the top management agenda and creates major impact for our clients. In that respect, it’s quite different from working for an IT consultancy where you would have a much narrower focus on technology and implementation.
Something else I really value is my freedom to choose projects and decide who I’d like to work with. Over time you build up a network of people that work together well. You spend a lot of time with your team, so it’s important to create a friendly environment and have fun together. The Business Technology Practice feels like a little McKinsey within McKinsey—it has a real family atmosphere.