Management Consultant
Management has been defined as the art of getting results through other people, and consultancy as giving professional advice. Management consul- tants are employed to provide a higher degree of expertise than is available in a particular company; to recommend business solutions and assist in their imple- mentation; to assist in cultural change and to provide expertise to solve specific business issues. Firms of management consultants specialise, tending to divide their activities into the following areas: organisation, development and policy formation – long- range planning and reorganisation of a company’s structure; production manage- ment – production control arrangements; marketing, sales and distribution; finance and administration – installation of budgetary control systems; personnel management selection; management of information systems – the provision of software, systems analysis; economic and environmental studies – urban and regional development planning, work for overseas organisations. With the growth in e-commerce many consultancies are providing advice on e-business solutions. Management coach This is a relatively new career and management coaches work far more with individuals than with whole organisations or departments. They work mostly with managers at a senior level in all kinds of organisation, helping them to work more efficiently and effectively and working on any problem areas, for example presenting in public, interpreting data, and team leadership.
06 · Qualifications & training you need
A degree is essential. Most employers will expect a postgraduate degree or experience that is relevant to their area of activity.
Where people train for this
03 · Education pathway
Business, finance, economics, accounting or related tertiary education; professional certification may apply.
09 · Personal qualities and skills
Logistics can offer early responsibility, so trainee managers should be respon- sible, able to motivate others and enjoy a challenge. Organisational, numeracy and people management skills are essential. Foreign language skills are an advantage. The ability to use IT packages and electronic communication has become increasingly important with the growing use of the internet. The supply chain is at the centre of many e-commerce developments.
04 · Lifestyle
Long working hours and frequent travel are common. Management consultants may have to spend long periods away from home.
04 · Location
Usually office-based but many people have a hybrid working pattern. Visits to clients’ premises locally and abroad may also be required.
21 · The realities
The financial rewards are high, but management consultants have to work hard, and may have to spend long periods away from home.
20 · Salary guide
Graduate management trainees start between £18,000 and £22,000. Managers’ salaries are variable and can reach £60,000, rising as high as £100,000 for direc- tors with board-level responsibility in large organisations. Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK), Logistics and Transport Centre, Earlstrees Court, Earlstrees Road, Corby, Northants NN17 4AX; 01536 740100;
12 · How the pathway typically runs
Management consultancy firms offer internships and training programmes to high-achieving graduates. Following a period of training, management consultants usually specialize in one area, such as helping companies re-brand, or analysing a client’s competitors or sales strategies.
07 · Graduate route
You can join a management consultancy as an intern after completing a degree. Competition for places is intense, but for ambitious graduates they offer the best route into the profession. BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL Your chances of becoming a management consultant are higher if you have solid experience or formal training in a profession such as law, finance, accountancy, or IT.