Inside info from PA

I'm currently looking into various strategy roles and would be grateful for feedback from anyone who has experience of PA's marketing and strategy offering. Specifically: 1) How much time do consultants spend away from London typically, 2) What is the average project duration, 3) Is there a good work/life mix, 4) What is PA’s reputation in this area, within the industry. Thanks in advance for your help. It’s very difficult getting an inside view of an organisation until you’re actually on the inside and by then it’s too late, so any insight would be appreciated.

Holly.

Holly,

Wwhat rank are you loking to come in at?

Hi PAer,

I have 5 yrs experience for a couple of blue chips - 2 of those 5 years within strategy. Holly

Holly, I work for PA perhaps you could leave your email address i'll get in touch. I think you would most likely to be looking to come it at CA/C level, although as a true meritocracy you can expect swift promotion if you deliver...

Holly-

Difficult to answer your queries as there is no 'typical'- I have worked out of London every week of my 2 year career with PA... but a girl who started at the same time as me has been on a long term london job. I have worked for 15 clients in 2 years, the other girl for 1.... Work life balance is what you make it- as all consultantcies, you work long and hard when the client has a problem, but when you're off the clock you can slope off a bit early and noone really minds.

My advice would be go with your gut feeling- do you like the people you meet at interview, for example? PA has a very distinct culture- quite a lot of eccentricity is tolerated, and I'd echo the point about the meritocracy (above) and people who 'fit in' love it and thrive here- people who don't hate everything about the firm.

Good luck- hope you decide to join us!