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
Management Consulting (Partner/Principal)
15-20 years to Partner, then move to industrySkills to master
- Enterprise strategy development, complex problem structuring, executive influence, M&A advisory, large-scale transformation design, client relationship management.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven track record of leading multi-million-pound client engagements and driving significant value.
- Deep expertise in our industry sector (FinTech/SaaS).
- Strong network within the consulting and corporate world.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
- 2
Corporate Development / M&A (VP/SVP)
15-20 years in Corp Dev, Investment Banking, or Private EquitySkills to master
- M&A strategy, deal sourcing, valuation, due diligence, negotiation, post-merger integration planning, capital allocation, investor relations.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully executed multiple complex M&A transactions (from £50M to £500M+).
- Strong understanding of financial markets and investment strategies.
- Ability to identify strategic fit and unlock value through acquisitions.
- Experience presenting deal rationale to Boards and investors.
- 3
Business Unit General Manager / CEO (SME)
15-25 years, including P&L responsibility for a significant business unit or a smaller company.Skills to master
- Full P&L management, operational leadership, market entry strategies, product innovation, sales and marketing leadership, cross-functional team leadership, Board engagement.
You're ready to move on when
- Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and profitability in a complex business environment.
- Experience setting and executing a holistic business strategy.
- Strong commercial acumen and understanding of market dynamics.
- Proven leadership capability across all functions of a business.