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
From Lead Strategic Roadmap Manager (L4)
2-4 years as an L4Skills to master
- Developing a broader, cross-functional strategic perspective, leading complex programmes, and mastering executive-level influence and communication.
You're ready to move on when
- You've consistently owned and delivered the roadmap for a major business area, demonstrating clear impact.
- You've started informally mentoring other strategists and are comfortable leading without constant supervision.
- You're actively sought out by senior leaders for your strategic input on complex, ambiguous problems.
- You've taken initiative to improve our strategic planning processes, not just follow them.
- 2
From Senior Management Consultant (Tier 1/2 Firm)
3-5 years as a Senior Consultant/Engagement ManagerSkills to master
- Adapting consulting frameworks to an in-house context, building long-term internal relationships, and transitioning from project-based delivery to continuous strategic ownership.
You're ready to move on when
- You've led multiple strategic engagements for large clients, demonstrating clear business impact.
- You're adept at managing complex client relationships and influencing senior stakeholders.
- You're comfortable with ambiguity and can quickly get up to speed on new industries or business models.
- You're looking for a role where you can truly 'own' the strategy and see it through to execution, rather than just advise.
- 3
From Head of Product Strategy (Large Organisation)
3-5 years in a similar roleSkills to master
- Broadening your strategic scope beyond product to encompass broader corporate strategy, including market entry, M&A, and organisational capability building.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully defined and executed product strategies that have driven significant market share or revenue growth.
- You're experienced in balancing a product portfolio between innovation and optimisation.
- You've worked closely with executive leadership to align product strategy with overall corporate goals.
- You're ready to take on a more holistic business strategy role, influencing across all functions.