Clearview vs LEK vs ZS

Could help me with my decision between the Clearview Consultant, LEK Life Science Specialist, and ZS Associate consultant role? Would love to learn more about the pros and cons of each firm (ie. type of projects, future outlook, exit opportunities, culture, wlb)

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Can provide a perspective about CV, but not so much the other two. Keep in mind I haven't been here for super long, but these are my perspectives

Pros: 

Potential for interesting projects - for large pharma clients, the majority of the work I have seen is at the BU/asset level doing some sort of opportunity assessment, while for smaller clients, we do more work at the franchise/enterprise strategy level. the latter is the more difficult project imo, but also way more interesting

Accelerated career progression - CV probably has some of the fastest promotion timelines I have seen. If you are good, you are rewarded for it 

Future outlook - CV is growing rapidly and just added 2 European offices. I am intrigued by the long term potential for this firm, and I think it's getting increasingly recognized/more prestigious. Case in point: I'm not sure CV would have even been in consideration for many in your position a few years ago. 

Ownership - for better or worse, you take on a lot of responsibility at CV and will get chances to really own a part of a project and engage with clients. From my understanding, not many firms give as much exposure/responsibility to their juniors as CV does, which can fuel tremendous growth opportunities

People - everybody I have met has been quite sharp and hard working. People are generally from top schools and have science backgrounds, and will take time to mentor you and provide guidance.  

Cons: 

WLB - I haven't been here for super long, but CV and LEK are both notorious for being sweatshops

Comp - From my understanding, CV is meaningfully lower than LEK at every level (I heard LEK pays very well). You probably have more accurate information about this in your offer letters, but if your good, the accelerated career progression can potentially offset this 

In terms of exit opps, from what I've seen, they are pretty good? this is the one I am least sure about, so happy to hear other perspectives. Hope people from the other firms can comment as well, but looks like you have 3 amazing opportunities and can't really go wrong with any. Good luck! 

 

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