Exit Opportunities for Top Management Consultants from MBB Firms

Management consulting firms like McKinsey, Bain, and Boston Consulting Group (MBB) are renowned for their rigorous training and the transferable skills they impart. As a result, the question of where most MBB consultants exit to after their tenure at the firm is a topic of great interest. This article explores the various career paths that await these top-tier consultants, from corporate roles to entrepreneurship and beyond.

The Common Exit Path: Corporate Roles

Many MBB consultants transition into senior management positions within large corporations, often in strategy, operations, or business development. This transition is not surprising given the strategic and problem-solving skills honed in their consulting roles. These roles provide a natural progression for consultants who seek to leverage their expertise to drive organizational change and growth.

Entrepreneurship: A Popular Choice

A significant number of MBB consultants opt to either join or start their own businesses, often leveraging the analytical and strategic skills they acquired during their tenure. Entrepreneurship allows these professionals to build on their understanding of complex business issues and implement innovative solutions. Starting a business can be an exciting and rewarding path, as it allows consultants to apply their experience directly to growth and impact.

Private Equity and Venture Capital

The analytical and strategic skills developed in consulting are highly valued in the investment world. Many former MBB consultants choose to work in private equity or venture capital, where their abilities to analyze market trends and assess investment opportunities are in high demand. Positions as analysts or associates in these firms provide a strong foundation for further career advancement.

Corporate Professionals: Starting a New Career

For many people, the flexibility and growth opportunities available in consulting are appealing, leading them to pursue consulting as a career. The primary work objective of a consultant is to understand new situations or problems, hypothesize solutions, test these hypotheses, and find the right solution. This iterative process, repeated every 2-6 months, under the guidance of experienced consultants, offers a wealth of learning opportunities. It is no wonder that when consultants decide to exit consulting, they often find themselves well-equipped to transition into a wide range of roles.

Other Professional Services

Following their consulting careers, many MBB consultants move into other professional service roles, such as financial services, marketing, or continue in consulting firms in leadership or specialized roles. These positions often require the strategic and analytical skills developed during their tenure at top consulting firms, making them ideal career paths for transition.

Nonprofit and Public Sector

For some, the appeal of making a social impact through nonprofit or government roles is a significant factor. These consultants often bring their analytical and problem-solving skills to organizations focused on social issues, making a positive difference in the world.

Evolving Exit Opportunities

The exit opportunities for MBB consultants are not limited to traditional career paths. While some may pursue high-paying, high-stress jobs, others may find great satisfaction in turning to other opportunities that align with their personal goals. For example, someone who is unable to have children might find the opportunity to become a stay-at-home parent incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, a deep love for learning might drive someone to return to a PhD program.

Conclusion

The exit opportunities for top management consultants like those at McKinsey, Bain, and Boston Consulting Group are varied and numerous. Whether one chooses to work in corporate roles, start their own business, or pursue other professional paths, the skills acquired in these firms provide a strong foundation for success. The key to a rewarding exit is finding a path that aligns with personal happiness and fulfillment.