Yves

Business Analyst

What prompted you to investigate a career in consulting?

While in the United States, I was invited to an event by McKinsey’s German Office. During the presentation, I realised that I could have so much more impact, responsibility and unparalleled development opportunities in consulting than in the other sectors I was thinking about. I also got on very well with the McKinsey consultants; they were hugely passionate about the work they were doing and fun to be around. What really resonated with me was that they all had very different backgrounds so it was encouraging to know that my Chemical Engineering degree could fit within the firm.

What have you gained from working at McKinsey?

I have gained many deep insights into different industries on 2-3 month studies. Getting to know the underlying processes and industry trends is hugely valuable as I decide whether to join one of these industries in the future. Additionally, I have found there is a strong culture of constructive feedback, which is helping me to improve my skills and abilities for the future.

What types of projects have you been involved with so far at McKinsey?

I have had the opportunity to work in a wide range of industries, including consumer goods and banking and securities. Projects have covered different functional aspects such as strategy, marketing, operations and organisation. There is a large variety in the work I have done on a daily basis too; I have led client workshops, interviewed client team members and come up with hypotheses to the problem in question. And all of this could happen in one day!

What training and support have you received since starting?

The learning curve has been steep but training and support are very much a part of the culture, from getting taught the essential business tools and concepts during the two-week residential programme, to being coached by my Engagement Manager on a day-to-day basis.

What are your long term goals?

After my time as a Business Analyst at McKinsey, I would like to work in a different continent for a couple of months; do some hands-on consulting in developing parts of the world. I would eventually like do an MBA and continue my career with McKinsey in the future.