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
Graduate Scheme (Internal Consulting/Analytics)
2-3 years after graduationSkills to master
- Foundational SQL, Excel modelling, basic data visualisation, structured problem-solving, presentation skills.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully completed multiple analytical projects with clear business impact.
- Consistently received positive feedback on data accuracy and communication.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently on defined tasks.
- 2
Data Analyst / Business Intelligence Analyst (from another company)
2-4 years in a similar analytical roleSkills to master
- Advanced SQL, Python for data manipulation, building complex dashboards, stakeholder communication, understanding business context.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven experience translating business questions into analytical approaches.
- Strong portfolio of dashboards or analytical reports.
- Comfortable working with messy, real-world data.
- Eagerness to move into a more consultative, problem-solving role.
- 3
Junior Strategy Consultant (with strong analytical focus)
2-3 years in a general consulting roleSkills to master
- Deepening technical skills (SQL, Python), data cleaning and preparation, business case modelling, data storytelling.
You're ready to move on when
- Experience working on strategic projects, even if not data-heavy.
- Strong client management and presentation skills.
- A clear desire to specialise in data-driven problem-solving.
- Demonstrated aptitude for quantitative analysis.