How to Get a Job as a Management Consultant

A consultant gives a presentation

Management Consultants (also called Management Analysts) help organizations improve efficiency, streamline operations, and drive strategic growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for this role to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average, with around 95,700 new job openings per year (bls.gov). Here’s how to build a career in this dynamic field.

Entry-Level Requirements for Management Consultants

To start a career as a Management Consultant, you typically need:

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, engineering, or a related field. Many top firms prefer an MBA or equivalent graduate degree.

2. Credentials: Professional certifications like Certified Management Consultant (CMC) or project management credentials (PMP, CAPM) can boost credibility.

3. Experience: Internships at consulting firms or related roles in strategy, business analysis, or project management are highly beneficial.

Expected Salary for Management Consultants

Salaries vary by experience, location, and firm:

• Entry-Level: $60,000–$80,000 annually.

• Mid-Level: $80,000–$120,000 annually.

• Senior-Level: $120,000–$200,000+ annually.

Median base salary is around $104,830 according to BLS, while Indeed reports an average of $92,665 depending on experience (indeed.com).

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

• Analytical Thinking: Evaluate complex business problems and develop solutions.

• Communication: Present insights to executives and stakeholders clearly.

• Strategic Planning: Guide organizations in decision-making and long-term strategy.

• Project Management: Lead projects and initiatives effectively.

• Adaptability: Navigate changing business environments and client demands.

Is Management Consulting Suitable for Introverts or Extroverts?

Management consulting suits both: analytical tasks appeal to introverts, while client engagement and presentations appeal to extroverts.

Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for Management Consultants

1. University of Pennsylvania – Wharton (MBA)

2. Harvard Business School (MBA)

3. University of Chicago – Booth School of Business (MBA)

4. Stanford Graduate School of Business (MBA)

5. MIT Sloan School of Management (MBA)

Can You Become a Management Consultant Without a Degree?

It’s challenging but possible for individuals with exceptional business insight, strong analytical skills, extensive networks, and professional certifications (e.g., CMC) to enter through boutique firms or freelance consulting.

Five Jobs Similar to Management Consultant

1. Strategy Analyst

2. Business Analyst

3. Operations Consultant

4. Project Lead

5. Financial Consultant

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Management Consulting Roles

1. Korn Ferry

2. Robert Half

3. Spencer Stuart

4. Michael Page

5. Hays

6. Adecco

7. ManpowerGroup

8. Aerotek

9. Lucas Group

10. Russell Reynolds Associates

Top Ten Employers Hiring Management Consultants

1. McKinsey & Company

2. Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

3. Bain & Company

4. Deloitte

5. Accenture

6. PwC

7. Ernst & Young (EY)

8. KPMG

9. Oliver Wyman

10. Egon Zehnder

Top Ten Startups or Niche Firms Hiring Management Consultants

1. Strategy& (PwC’s consulting arm)

2. Roland Berger

3. LEK Consulting

4. AlixPartners

5. Booz Allen Hamilton

6. FTI Consulting

7. ZS Associates

8. OC&C Strategy Consultants

9. ClearView Healthcare Partners

10. L.E.K. Consulting

Management consulting is a dynamic, rewarding career for strategic thinkers and problem-solvers. By developing strong education credentials, gaining relevant experience, and building certifications, you can thrive in this fast-paced field. Learn about other high-demand jobs over the next decade here.