Options post-undergrad

Ahoy there! Your journey sounds quite intriguing, and it's fantastic that you're already gaining valuable experience in corporate strategy during your undergrad. Based on the most helpful WSO content and threads, let's dive into your query about jumping directly into in-house corporate strategy roles in London post-undergrad.

First off, it's not unheard of for graduates to move directly into corporate strategy roles, especially if they have relevant experience, which you seem to be accumulating. Your year in industry at a significant German tech company, focusing on macroeconomic research and competitor analysis, is precisely the kind of experience that can set you apart from other candidates.

While it's true that many corporate strategy roles might lean towards hiring individuals with an MBA or previous consulting experience, there are still opportunities for exceptional candidates straight out of undergrad, particularly in London. The key is to leverage your unique experiences and skills effectively.

Here are a few pointers for your journey:

1. Highlight Your Experience: Make sure your CV and cover letter clearly articulate the strategic projects you've worked on, the impact you've had, and the skills you've developed. This experience is your ticket to standing out.

2. Network, Network, Network: Utilize LinkedIn and alumni networks from your business school to connect with professionals working in corporate strategy. Informational interviews can provide insights into how others have navigated their career paths and may lead to job opportunities.

3. Target the Right Companies: While MBB might be the gold standard for consulting, there are numerous other firms and in-house strategy departments that value the kind of experience you're gaining. Look into tech companies, as your experience aligns well, but also consider other sectors that interest you. Firms outside the MBB circle, like Big 4 consulting branches, boutique consultancies, or even startups, might offer the strategic roles you're interested in.

4. Consider Graduate Schemes: Many large companies in the UK offer graduate schemes in strategy or related areas. These programs are designed to develop future leaders and can be an excellent entry point into corporate strategy.

5. Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Your focus on macroeconomic research and competitor analysis is a strong selling point. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these skills to drive decisions and the outcomes of your projects during interviews.

6. Stay Open to Consulting: If direct entry into corporate strategy doesn't pan out immediately, consulting can be a valuable stepping stone, providing a broad range of experiences and further developing your strategic thinking skills.

Remember, your path doesn't have to be linear. Many professionals in corporate strategy have taken diverse routes to get there. Your unique blend of academic background and practical experience in a leading tech company's strategy department is a strong foundation. Keep building on it, stay flexible, and seize the opportunities that align with your career aspirations. Good luck!

Sources: Best corporate strategy teams that hire out of undergrad?, Q&A: Director - Corporate Strategy, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, Best MBA to move back to London with, Corp Dev / Strategy scene in London