Hi everyone,
Currently at a boutique of around 60 consultants in NYC. Have been here for 2 years out of non-target undergrad. We primarily do typical operations consulting, and I've gotten project work in financial services (insurance) and with some PE portcos including manufacturing and industrials.
The work is solid, I get a lot of responsibility and I have a good reputation at the firm. I have an offer to join another growing boutique (~120 people) that focuses mainly on supply chain work, procurement, sourcing etc. (an area I do like). It's not the most well-known but you can find it on the Vault top 50.
My goal is to lateral to a T2 or similar in a couple years. Would appreciate any advice as to whether remaining as a generalist at my current firm or jumping and specializing in that vertical and later angling for a role in a similar group at a larger firm increases my odds of getting there. Just would like to know what's the most feasible and realistic.
If so, any firms/practice areas to keep an eye out for? Kearney? Deloitte S&O?
Thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:
Generalist vs. Specialist: Staying at your current generalist boutique allows you to maintain a broad skill set, which can be appealing to firms looking for versatile consultants. However, specializing in supply chain at the new boutique could make you a stronger candidate for roles in that specific vertical at T2 firms like Kearney or Deloitte S&O, which have strong supply chain practices.
Reputation and Growth: The new boutique's focus on supply chain and its presence on the Vault top 50 suggests it has a solid reputation. Specializing in a growing and in-demand area like supply chain could position you well for lateral moves, especially if you can demonstrate expertise and impact in that niche.
Exit Opportunities: If your long-term goal is to lateral to a T2 firm, specializing in supply chain could align well with firms that value deep expertise in procurement, sourcing, and operations. Kearney, for instance, is known for its strength in operations and supply chain consulting, making it a natural fit.
Feasibility and Realism: Both paths are feasible, but the specialized route might give you a clearer narrative when applying to T2 firms. Highlighting your expertise in supply chain and your ability to deliver results in that area could make you stand out.
Firms/Practice Areas to Watch: Keep an eye on firms like Kearney, Deloitte S&O, and even niche practices within Big 4 strategy arms (e.g., PwC's Operations Consulting). These firms value both generalist and specialist backgrounds, but a strong track record in supply chain could give you an edge.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your interest in supply chain and how confident you are in leveraging that specialization for your next move. If you enjoy the work and see yourself building a career in that space, the specialized boutique could be the better choice. If you prefer keeping your options open, staying at your current firm as a generalist might be wiser.
Sources: Ask Me Anything - Federal Consulting at a Tier Two Firm, Stay at Big 4 or jump to boutique?, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, From trader to consultant, Regional Boutique vs. F15 Tech PM
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