T2 -> MBB lateral? Seeking Career Advice
I recently landed offers at T2 while striking out on all MBB despite making final rounds for a few. Grateful for the offers and will be signing soon but curious if it would be worth it to lateral after 1-2 years for better pivot opportunities? If so, would it be better to lateral with 1 or 2 years of work exp(w a promotion). My goal is to either pivot to tech (internal strategy) or tech PE. I don't want to do consulting for more than 3 years.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, lateraling from a T2 consulting firm to MBB can be a strategic move, especially if your long-term goal is to pivot into tech (internal strategy) or tech PE. Here are some key considerations:
Timing of the Lateral Move:
Value of MBB for Your Goals:
Challenges of Lateraling:
Alternative Path:
In summary, lateraling to MBB after 2 years with a promotion is likely the better option if you’re aiming for stronger pivot opportunities. However, even without an MBB lateral, a well-planned exit from T2 can still lead to success in tech or tech PE.
Sources: Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Capital One BA vs MBB, Lateral hire from another consulting firm to MBB, Q&A 2.0: 3rd Year BA/A/AC At MBB Going To UMM/MF This Summer
Depending on your firm and project experience/office you may not need to lateral. Ex: being in SF office for OW/LEK will set you up well for tech opportunities.
I agree with the above sentiment that you may not even need to lateral for good exits, but I think it’s undeniably true that MBB exits are on average better than T2. With that said, I think the longer you spent at MBB the better so if you can lateral after one year then you should.
Some things to consider:
Tech PE - yes worth the switch given how prestige-driven PE is but mind the geography especially if Bain. Just be sure PE is what you want
Otherwise no a lateral isn’t really worth it and doesn’t change much IMO, esp. if you’re not explicitly angling for Partner (and want to leave within a few years as a Sr Analyst / Associate)
Fwiw was @ MBB, saw someone else make the switch from T2 to MBB. It was worth it for him as the progression is faster and he’s on Partner track
Got an MBB offer after 3 years at a T2. Turned it down for fit reasons but it was not that difficult to obtain since my case experience matched the hot areas of the MBB very closely. Would likely be harder if you were coming from a very generalist background at the T2 or a weaker / slower area.
Curious if you are willing to share the make or break for why you turned it down (comp, practice area, location etc.)?
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