Dear All,
I currently work for a major construction business as a Commercial Manager, overseeing over £120m of new build projects. Having established myself in this industry, with over 10 years experience I would prefer to diversify and work in a management consulting arena, in either a strategic or organisational change capacity.
To facilitate this career transition am I better completing an MBA (likely to be concluded by my mid-thirties) or attempting a direct move now.
Recognising that management consultants traditionally gravitate towards other sectors than construction is it probable that there would be business' interested in my skills without further formal business training?
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I think it is very much dependant upon your 'skill set' and how you present yourself. An MBA is an ideal and a preference in demonstrating both your aptitude but also commitment.
That said your industry bias is certainly not a blocker recognising the infrastructure investment of the current economy.
Have you looked at any specific organisations to join or keeping your options open?
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Thankyou for your comments. I have looked at the big organisations (e.g McKinsey) but have been equally attracted by the likes of Q5, that appear fresh and experience in assisting construction businesses.
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SethFrances,
Sorry - I'm slightly confused. Was your second note for this thread?
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Does anyone else have any advice please?
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Does anyone else have any advice please?
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What are you aiming to achieve? What level are you hoping to come in at?
I know a few people in this field with your sort of background but they made the transition much earlier in their careers.
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I am pragmatic in regards to the level I will come in at and am happy to drop from a leadership role to work my way back up the ladder, but ultimately I am looking to broaden my experiences in a business context so as to enable me to move forward in the long-term.
I believe my focus and equally that of my industry is relatively narrow; I am therefore looking to learn business skills and develop a much wider skill set.
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How about a construction consultancy which does some consulting work? E.g. Mott Macdonald, EC Harris, Atkins - in fact most of he larger ones dabble to a greater or lesser extent. Not sure if you would need an MBA or something to compensate for lack of consulting experience.
Option 2: Big 4 team working in the sector but at a more strategic / business-focused level, e.g. PwC Capital Project Services, Deloitte Real Estate Consulting, KPMG Major Project Advisory. You could do this now if your CV is good and you interview well.
Option 3: MBA then whichever consultancy you can get imo. Plenty of stuff elsewhere on pros, cons, prospects, which school etc which I shan't repeat here.
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