Becoming Strategy consultant

The strategy and organization consultant assists companies in perfecting their business model. By identifying areas for growth and improving competitive positioning, while eliminating operational blockages, they propose innovative solutions and implement a comprehensive and effective strategy. They work in a consulting firm or directly within the client company. This role requires a deep understanding of business strategies and the ability to operate at a high level to address the future needs of a business.

On a daily basis, the main activities of a strategy consultant include:

• Analyzing the client's situation and defining priority development areas: This involves a thorough assessment of the business's current operations, identifying strategic gaps, and determining the level of transformation needed.
• Evaluating potential blockages and professional risks: Consultants must foresee obstacles that could hinder the strategy's implementation and devise plans to mitigate them.
• Communicating with the management team and various stakeholders: Clear and effective communication is vital to align the business's strategic goals with its operational capabilities.
• Identifying opportunities and conducting audits and benchmarks: Using data-driven approaches, consultants identify opportunities for business growth, assess the firm's market position, and benchmark against industry leaders.
• Seeking operational solutions: The consultant creates actionable plans that address the company’s specific challenges, integrating digital tools and technologies to enhance performance.
• Drafting diagnostics and commercial proposals: Based on their findings, consultants prepare detailed reports and business proposals, offering strategic advice that aligns with the company's goals.
• Preparing recommendations for implementation: They develop a strategic plan that outlines the steps necessary to achieve the desired business outcomes.
• Monitoring the implementation phase and evaluating results: Consultants oversee the process, ensuring that the strategy is executed effectively, and adjust the plan as needed to improve performance.

The strategy consultant possesses a range of skills that are essential to their role:

• Organizational, negotiation, and observational skills: These are crucial for managing complex projects and interacting with various stakeholders.
• Tact and diplomacy: Consultants often navigate sensitive situations, requiring strong interpersonal skills.
• Risk analysis methods, including systemic and functional analysis: These tools help consultants understand the broader impact of their recommendations on the business.
• Proficiency with office tools and database management software: This technical knowledge is vital for handling large amounts of data and ensuring accurate analysis.
• Knowledge of commercial and labor law: Understanding the legal framework helps consultants offer advice that complies with regulations.
• Comprehensive understanding of the client's industry sector: Industry knowledge allows consultants to offer insights that are both relevant and actionable, positioning them as experts in their field.

Strategy consultants working for large companies or renowned consulting firms are generally graduates of prestigious schools.

The Master in Strategy & Consulting offered by emlyon business school is an excellent choice for those looking to enter this field. This program equips students with the skills needed to become effective consultants by focusing on both strategy and business transformation.

At emlyon, you will gain experience in real-world scenarios, working alongside professionals in the field. The program includes a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from strategic planning to digital transformation, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges they will face as consultants. Students learn to develop strategies that address specific business needs, creating value for clients and positioning themselves as leaders in the consulting industry.

The Master in Management is another pathway that provides a solid foundation in business management. This program offers a range of tracks and elective courses that allow students to specialize in consulting, preparing them for a career as strategy consultants. With a focus on corporate strategy and business process improvement, the program helps students build the skills necessary to excel in the consulting profession.

On average, the salary of a strategy consultant evolves as follows:

• Junior: €45,000 per year
• Confirmed: €56,000 per year
• Senior: €78,000 per year

These figures reflect the growing demand for skilled consultants and the level of expertise required to succeed in this career. The salary can also vary depending on the firm, with top strategy consulting firms like Bain & Company offering competitive packages that reflect the high level of skills and experience required.

After three or four years of practice, a Junior consultant can become Senior. Then, they may be offered a manager position to lead a team of consultants. With solid experience, the consultant can open their own consulting firm or move into a partner role within a larger firm. The career path in strategy consulting is dynamic and offers opportunities for significant professional growth. Consultants can choose to specialize in specific industries or areas of consulting, such as change management, digital transformation, or strategic planning.

In summary, the strategy consultant plays a key role in guiding a company in the evolution of its overall strategy. They advise, guide, and help implement sustainable solutions aimed at better performance while respecting ethical and environmental objectives. As businesses continue to evolve, the role of the strategy consultant becomes increasingly important in helping organizations navigate complex challenges and achieve long-term success.

By joining emlyon business school to complete your academic journey, you are choosing excellence and unanimous recognition in the market. The school offers a strong platform for students to build their careers, providing access to a network of industry professionals and exclusive internship opportunities. The program's emphasis on real-world experience ensures that graduates are well-equipped to start their careers in consulting, with the ability to understand and solve the strategic challenges facing today's businesses.

Thanks to ongoing challenges and exclusive internship offers, as well as privileged industry contacts, emlyon, ranked second globally for employability (Global University Employability Ranking 2024 - Times Higher Education), trains its students to become operational efficiently and quickly. This strong foundation, combined with the School’s commitment to continuous learning and development, allows graduates to stay competitive in the ever-evolving consulting industry.

Whether you are looking to start your career in consulting or aiming to improve your current position, emlyon business school offers the resources and support needed to succeed. The School's programs are designed to help students develop the skills and capabilities necessary to lead in the field of strategy consulting, offering a range of courses that cover everything from project management to financial services. By choosing emlyon, you are positioning yourself for success in a field that values expertise, innovation, and a strong ability to drive growth.

The role of a strategy and organization consultant is both challenging and rewarding. It requires a deep understanding of business strategy, a strong analytical mindset, and the ability to work closely with clients to achieve their goals. With the right education and experience, you can build a successful career in this dynamic field, helping businesses navigate the complexities of today’s competitive environment. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to advance in your career, the opportunities in strategy consulting are vast and varied, offering the chance to make a significant impact in the business world.