Product to Consulting?

Hi all, I currently work at a well known IB/asset manager in a product finance role meaning I am an associate for a specific fund/strategy. My tasks include marketing for the fund, helping launch new products, and answer client questions/requests. Would this background align well to a transition to consulting? I have 1 + YOE could I come recruit FT against undergrads?

I know this is a backwards transition as I hear of many people doing consulting -> product but I want to get a broader business exposure and explore different industries. 

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning from a product finance role to consulting is definitely possible, especially if you can effectively frame your experience. Your background in marketing, product launches, and client management demonstrates transferable skills like project management, communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in consulting.

To address your specific questions: 1. Does your background align well for consulting? Yes, your experience aligns well, particularly for roles that value client-facing and strategic project experience. Highlighting your ability to manage complex tasks and work with diverse stakeholders will be key.

  1. Can you recruit FT against undergrads? Yes, you can recruit as an experienced hire. As noted in previous WSO threads, consulting firms often value candidates with 1-2 years of work experience, especially if you can articulate a strong story for why you want to make the switch. Your experience will likely outweigh the need to compete directly with undergrads.

To improve your chances: - Leverage your network and reach out to consultants at firms you're targeting. - Prepare a compelling narrative about why you're transitioning to consulting and how your current role has prepared you. - Focus on firms that value diverse backgrounds, such as MBB or tier-2 consulting firms, as they often appreciate candidates with unique experiences.

For more insights, you might find this thread helpful: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/economic-consu…</a">Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms.

Sources: Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Q&A: 1st year VC analyst (~750M AUM), Q&A: Consulting v. Banking, the age old question. By Former MBB and Bulge Bracket Banker., Ask Me: Former Strategy Consulting Recruiter, Economic Consulting Q&amp;A - Past experience at major firms

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I started out in a similar role and I was unable to head to MBB, this role lends itself to other finance roles (can usually go down the PM track, become an analyst or head to S&T). Consulting will be very difficult from this path given it’s quite a different skillset.

 

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