Management consultant

As a management consultant, you could:

• speak to staff, managers and customers to understand issues
•  collect and analyse data to pinpoint areas for improvement
•  create computer models to test possible business solutions
•  prepare reports and present recommendations to the client
•  support businesses as they put plans into action

You'll travel often and may spend nights away from home.

• excellent verbal communication skills
• business management skills 
• analytical thinking skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• the ability to work well with others
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly
• a graduate training scheme

With experience, you could become a partner in a management consultancy, work freelance or set up your own consultancy firm. You could work in all areas of the public and private sector.

You might also apply to become a chartered management consultant, which gives you industry recognition of your skills and expertise.