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Useful experience for management consultants includes:

• a senior role in a specific field such as law
• work in an organisation that does consulting
• management experience
• experience in human resources, law or marketing.

Management consultants may do some or all of the following:

• meet with clients and do research to understand an organisation
• discuss the problems or issues an organisation is facing
• research solutions and improvements that can be made
• prepare business reports, proposals and presentations
• provide clients with solutions and strategies to reach those solutions.

Management consultants who are self-employed also need to develop, market and run their business.

Chances best for experienced management consultants

Chances of getting a job are best for management consultants who have at least two years' experience, as they are in high demand by employers.

Chances of getting a job as a new entrant are average due to strong competition among graduates for a limited number of vacancies. 

According to the Census, 18,195 management consultants worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Graduate programmes a good way to get into management consultancy

A good way to get into management consultancy is to apply for graduate programmes at medium to large consultancy firms, or approach employers directly. Entry-level management consultants usually work under a mentor to gain experience.

Some management consultants work in an industry, such as law or business, to gain experience before moving into a management consultant role in that industry.

Chances of getting a job improve if you are flexible about the hours you work and the length of your contracts.

Types of employers varied

Management consultants are usually self-employed, own a share of a business, or work for medium to large consulting firms. They work for private businesses and government organisations.

Institute of Management Consultants New Zealand

09 930 9100 - info@imcnz.org.nz - www.imcnz.org.nz

Management consultants working for large consulting businesses may progress into managerial or partnership positions. Some may start their own business. 

Management consultants need to be:

• analytical, with problem-solving skills
• motivated
• resilient and able to cope with stress
• excellent communicators
• skilled in managing relationships
• methodical and organised
• able to work well alone and in a team.