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
From Global Strategy Manager (Level 5)
2-4 years as a Global Strategy ManagerSkills to master
- Deepen executive presence, master cross-functional influence at the VP level, consistently deliver multi-year strategic roadmaps, and build a track record of successful team leadership.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently exceeds targets for strategic initiative impact and team performance.
- Is regularly sought out by VPs for strategic advice outside their direct remit.
- Has successfully mentored and developed at least two Senior Strategists to the next level.
- Has led the annual strategic planning cycle for a significant business unit with minimal oversight.
- 2
From Lead Strategist / Strategy Principal (Level 4) at a larger firm
3-5 years as a Lead Strategist/Principal, often in a larger, more complex organisationSkills to master
- Transition from architecting individual initiatives to shaping broader business unit strategy, develop direct team management experience, and build a stronger track record of C-suite engagement.
You're ready to move on when
- Has owned and delivered multiple enterprise-level strategic programmes.
- Has significant experience presenting to and influencing C-suite stakeholders.
- Can demonstrate informal leadership and mentorship of junior team members.
- Has managed significant project budgets and external vendor relationships.
- 3
From Senior Consultant / Engagement Manager at a top-tier strategy consulting firm
Typically 8-12 years in consulting, reaching Engagement Manager or Junior Partner levelSkills to master
- Adapt to an 'in-house' strategic role, focusing on long-term impact and implementation rather than project-based delivery. Build deep organisational knowledge and internal influence.
You're ready to move on when
- Has led multiple client engagements focused on corporate or business unit strategy.
- Is comfortable with the full project lifecycle from problem definition to recommendation.
- Can demonstrate strong client relationship management and influencing skills.
- Is eager to commit to a single organisation and drive sustained, long-term impact.