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
Process Improvement Consultant (L2)
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Independently managing small-to-medium improvement projects, deep diving into data analysis, and running effective workshops with confidence.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivering projects on time and budget, with clear, measurable impact.
- Receiving positive feedback from internal clients on your collaboration and results.
- Proactively identifying improvement opportunities and taking initiative to address them.
- 2
Operations Analyst / Manager (from a business unit)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Deep operational knowledge of a specific business area, experience identifying and solving day-to-day process issues, and a good understanding of front-line challenges and realities.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led operational efficiency initiatives within your previous role.
- Strong understanding of the business unit's P&L and how processes impact it.
- Recognised as a go-to person for process questions or problem-solving within your department.
- 3
External Management Consultant (Junior/Associate level)
2-4 yearsSkills to master
- Structured problem-solving, client management, rigorous data analysis, and strong presentation skills from a fast-paced consulting background.
You're ready to move on when
- Experience delivering projects for multiple clients, demonstrating adaptability.
- Comfortable with fast-paced, high-pressure environments and managing tight deadlines.
- Possessing a strong analytical toolkit and a methodical approach to problem-solving.