What is your area of focus in the Czech Republic?
McKinsey launched the Business Technology Office in 1997 to build our knowledge and expertise in IT and to enhance our value proposition to clients on technology matters. We have extensive, deep experience in helping multinational companies with their IT-related top-management issues, and my aim here is to establish a BTO leadership center in Central and Eastern Europe. In addition, I hope to be able to continue working in the finance field, as I am also a banking guy.

What does being a McKinsey partner mean to you?
Being a partner of the firm is a fantastic opportunity to work in a wide range of industries and on different topics. Above all, though, it means working with exceptional people whom I trust and admire. It is all about interaction: We're helping top managers on high-level strategic issues, while at the same time keeping our hands on the content and on the problem solving. And we are functioning together here in McKinsey as a peerless team. I couldn't have asked for a more fulfilling professional environment.

What is the BTO's greatest potential in the ČR, and how will it develop in Eastern Europe?
There is a unique possibility here to leverage a pool of highly qualified talent to support the next wave of evolution in the information technology sector and in the business development of the country and the region. Take, for example, the future of the IT outsourcing and off-shoring industry. We're supporting the development of key service industries across the region, and helping to create a new generation of IT managers who understand business and business managers who understand IT.

What advice would you give students interested in starting a career in consulting?
When you join McKinsey, you are choosing a lifestyle. It is much more than a "job." Becoming a consultant is different from becoming "just" an employee; it's a whole life attitude. You're making a huge commitment and an investment into your future. You have to be really sure that this is your ideal professional development course and be ready to be in a place where you don't execute, but rather drive and follow your passion.

And what advice would you give people interested in the BTO specifically?
I see the BTO as a fantastic opportunity for people who want to deepen their understanding of IT topics, but who are eager to complement their expertise with the business and strategic implications of IT — people who want to become counselors to top management at any level and on any kind of IT–related matter.