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
Principal, Strategic Programs (Internal Promotion)
3-5 years as a PrincipalSkills to master
- Mastering portfolio management, demonstrating consistent value realisation across multiple programmes, and proving your ability to lead and develop other managers.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully owned a portfolio of strategic projects aligned to a specific business unit, consistently hitting >90% of value targets.
- Consistently received strong feedback from C-suite stakeholders on your strategic insights and ability to influence.
- Demonstrated strong talent development, with multiple direct reports progressing in their careers under your guidance.
- 2
Management Consultant (Senior Manager/Partner track)
10-15 years in consultingSkills to master
- Developing deep industry expertise, honing client relationship management, and leading large-scale transformation projects for diverse clients.
You're ready to move on when
- Led multiple complex engagements for FTSE 100 or equivalent clients, delivering significant measurable impact.
- Proven ability to manage large project teams and develop junior consultants.
- Strong network and reputation for strategic problem-solving and executive influence.
- 3
Head of Strategy / Business Unit Leader (Other Industry)
15+ years in industrySkills to master
- Developing comprehensive P&L ownership, deep operational understanding, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed a significant P&L or business unit, demonstrating strong commercial acumen.
- Led strategic planning and execution for a major division or company.
- Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams in a dynamic environment.