You’ll work in teams of typically 3–5 consultants, to identify, and oftentimes implement, potential solutions for a specific client problem or challenge in sustainability. Together, you will help clients make lasting improvements to their performance and realize their most important goals.
Over the course of each project, you will gather and analyze information, formulate and test hypotheses, and develop and communicate recommendations. You'll also present results to client management and implement recommendations in collaboration with client team members. Some examples of the specific work may include interviewing clients, leading client teams, building financial models, and working with McKinsey subject experts to develop perspectives and insights for the client. Depending on your area of focus or client needs, you will be asked to travel to your client site.
When you join McKinsey, you are joining a firm that will invest in your professional development. As a Material Economics intern, you will build on your knowledge and your understanding of complex business problems by addressing complex sustainability matters. You will structure ambiguous problems and take action to solve them, and learn how to synthesize complex information into clear takeaways and recommendations using both qualitative and quantitative methods. You will learn how to work effectively with diverse teams to come up with the best solution and move people and organizations to act. You will establish trust-based relationships with clients to better serve their organizations. You will communicate effectively with all audiences, including senior leaders, in a structured manner, and develop your leadership style, leveraging your own passions, strengths, and personal values.
McKinsey believes in strengths-based development and coaching, and you’ll receive frequent mentoring from colleagues. This will include a senior colleague from your office or practice who will help you grow and achieve your career goals. Additionally, you will have a professional development manager who manages staffing to help you choose projects based on your priorities as well as the needs of client service teams. At the end of your internship, you may receive an offer to join us as a full-time junior specialist after the completion of your degree.