The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Senior Business Analyst / Process Consultant
5-8 years of experienceSkills to master
- Deep process mapping (BPMN), requirements gathering, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. You'd be coming in with a strong 'what and how' of processes.
You're ready to move on when
- You've independently mapped and optimised several complex business processes.
- You're regularly asked to lead requirements gathering sessions for new systems.
- You've presented your analysis and recommendations to mid-level management.
- 2
Project Manager (non-IT focus)
6-10 years of experienceSkills to master
- Full project lifecycle management (initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, closure), risk management, and budget control. You'd be bringing strong 'delivery' skills.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully delivered 2-3 projects on time and within budget.
- You're comfortable managing project teams and external vendors.
- You've handled project escalations and navigated stakeholder conflicts.
- 3
Senior Change Specialist / Organisational Development
5-8 years of experienceSkills to master
- Change impact assessment, communication planning, training design and delivery, and resistance management. You'd be bringing the 'people' side of change.
You're ready to move on when
- You've designed and executed change communication plans for significant initiatives.
- You've delivered training programmes for new systems or processes.
- You've helped teams navigate difficult periods of organisational change.