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 Solutions Strategist (Internal Promotion)
3-5 years as a PrincipalSkills to master
- Deepen expertise in a specific business domain, demonstrate consistent success in managing a portfolio of engagements, develop strong executive relationships, and prove ability to influence strategic direction without direct authority.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led 2-3 major enterprise-level programmes with documented £5M+ impact.
- Consistently received top-tier feedback from C-suite sponsors.
- Built and mentored a high-performing team of Engagement Managers and Senior Consultants.
- Recognised as a thought leader within the internal consulting function and a trusted advisor to senior VPs.
- 2
External Management Consulting Director/Partner
Direct entry, assuming relevant experienceSkills to master
- Strong client relationship management at the executive level, experience leading large consulting engagements (multi-million pound), deep industry knowledge, and a proven ability to drive complex transformations.
You're ready to move on when
- Managed a P&L for a consulting practice or major client portfolio.
- Demonstrated ability to sell and deliver large-scale strategic projects.
- Extensive experience presenting to and influencing C-suite and Board members.
- Proven track record of building and developing high-performing consulting teams.
- 3
Head of Strategy / VP of Business Operations (Large Corporation)
Direct entry, assuming relevant experienceSkills to master
- Deep operational experience, strong commercial acumen, experience leading strategic planning cycles, and a track record of driving operational excellence and efficiency across a large business unit.
You're ready to move on when
- Owned a significant operational P&L or strategic budget.
- Led major cross-functional initiatives with tangible business impact.
- Demonstrated ability to translate strategic objectives into operational plans.
- Experience managing complex stakeholder environments and driving consensus.