Strategy & Economics Industrial Placement Review

As a Growth Strategy IP at PA Consulting, my day-to-day role involved researching markets, analysing data, building commercial insights and supporting the development of client recommendations. I worked closely with project teams, contributed to presentations and regularly had to get up to speed on unfamiliar sectors quickly.

Yes. I was given a good level of responsibility for a placement student, including ownership of analysis, preparing client-facing materials and contributing directly to team discussions. I was trusted to manage my own workstreams, work with senior colleagues and deliver to deadlines, while still having support and feedback from the wider team.

Yes. I developed both my analytical and softer skills during the placement. I became more confident in structuring ambiguous problems, analysing markets and data, building clear presentations and communicating findings to different stakeholders. I also improved my time management, commercial judgement and ability to work independently while still collaborating closely with a project team.

I received a strong level of support throughout the placement. My project teams and line manager were approachable and willing to provide guidance when needed, while still giving me the independence to take ownership of my work. Regular feedback helped me improve quickly, and I also felt comfortable asking questions or seeking input from more experienced colleagues.

The culture was collaborative, supportive and generally very welcoming. People were approachable regardless of seniority, and I found colleagues were happy to share their experience or offer advice when I asked. There was a strong focus on teamwork, but also enough independence to take ownership of your work.

I really enjoyed my placement. The variety of work, exposure to different sectors and opportunity to work with a range of people kept the experience interesting throughout. I particularly enjoyed being given real responsibility and seeing how my analysis contributed to wider team and client decisions. It also confirmed that consulting is an environment I enjoy.

Yes