Decide Whether You Should Step Up, Get Out, Slide Sideways or Stay Put!

Consulting & Strategy Industry Jobs Outlook 2025

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Consulting & Strategy Industry Market

Alright, picture this: the consulting and strategy industry is buzzing with energy, but the competition is fierce. Think of it like trying to be the best at a game where everyone is upping their skills, and new players keep joining. Here’s the good news: you’ve got the tools to rise above the noise.

The keys to success? 

  • Embrace emerging tech
  • Build a strong personal brand
  • Connect with the right people.

In this fast-paced world, standing still isn’t an option.

You’ve got to move forward—quickly!

Strategies to Stand Out

Embrace Emerging Technologies
The world’s changing faster than you can say “AI,” and if you’re not keeping up, you’re getting left behind. AI, automation, and data analytics aren’t just buzzwords; they’re the keys to unlocking better decisions and faster results. McKinsey & Company has been using AI to streamline their processes, making them quicker, smarter, and more competitive (McKinsey, 2023). If you don’t embrace these tools, you’ll miss the boat.

Build a Personal Brand
Your personal brand is like your professional superpower. It’s the thing that makes you stand out in a sea of consultants. Julie Sweet at Accenture knows this all too well. She built her brand by consistently sharing smart leadership insights on LinkedIn (Accenture, 2022). Just like a chef spices up a dish to make it unique, your personal brand adds that special “flavour” to your career. Make sure your skills, passions, and personality shine through. The world’s a stage—don’t be afraid to take the spotlight!

Strengthen Critical Skills

Critical Thinking: Be the person who sees the puzzle before anyone else does. Bain & Company helped a healthcare provider improve client satisfaction by 25%—all thanks to creative problem-solving (Bain & Company, 2021).

Adaptability: The only constant is change, and if you’re not ready to pivot when the winds shift, you’ll end up stuck in the mud. Deloitte nailed this during the pandemic, adapting their services to remote work without skipping a beat (Deloitte, 2020).

Collaboration: No one’s an island, and that’s especially true in consulting. Boston Consulting Groups (BCG) cross-functional teams work globally to deliver game-changing solutions for their clients (BCG, 2025). Learn to play well with others, and you’ll go far.

Leverage Networking Opportunities: Think of networking as planting seeds for future success. You never know when one conversation could lead to the next big opportunity. The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting is a prime example of where leaders from top firms like PwC and KPMG converge, exchanging ideas and shaking hands (WEF, 2023). Get out there. Meet people. Build relationships. You never know who the key to your next big opportunity might be.

Pursue Continuous Learning

Remember that feeling of getting a new toy and playing with it for hours? Well, that’s the vibe you want when learning new skills. Keep upgrading your toolkit. Whether it’s a course on Coursera or a quick LinkedIn Learning session, the more you know, the more you grow (Coursera, 2022). Staying sharp in today’s fast-moving world isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Industry Trends Shaping the Future

Digital Transformation: If you’re not onboard the digital transformation train, you’ll miss the ride. PwC’s smart use of AI for its tax services is a prime example of how embracing technology can save time and boost efficiency by 40% (PwC, 2022). It’s like upgrading from dial-up internet to fibre optic—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Remote Work Evolution: Remote work is here to stay, and it’s not just a passing trend. McKinsey’s seamless shift to remote work during the pandemic shows just how important it is to adapt quickly (McKinsey, 2023). Imagine your office being your living room, kitchen, or garden—that’s the future of work. Flexibility is now a top-tier skill.

Sustainability and Social Impact: The world is waking up to the need for sustainable business practices. EY’s advisory on reducing carbon footprints is just one example of how firms align with environmental goals (EY, 2021). In consulting, being “green” is more than just a buzzword. It’s the future. If you’re not part of it, you’re already falling behind.

Networking and Career Advancement

Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards. It’s about planting seeds and watering them until they bloom into opportunities. Go to events. Ask questions. Be curious. LinkedIn is a goldmine for building meaningful connections. Over 70% of senior consultants use it to advance their careers (LinkedIn, 2021). And don’t forget about mentorship. Seasoned professionals can offer invaluable advice—so seek them out!

Leveraging Social Media

Let’s face it: the world is online. Share your expertise. Get involved in conversations. Social media isn’t just for cat videos. It’s a powerful tool to showcase your knowledge. Look at IBM’s leaders—they’re always engaging on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, positioning themselves as experts in AI (IBM, 2022). Follow their lead, and you’ll be on your way to building your online presence.

Career Planning: A Crucial Strategy for Success

Now, let’s talk about career planning. You can’t just stumble into success—there’s a strategy behind every great move. Take David, for example. He’s 34, frustrated with his current role, and feels stuck. He’s great at his work, but his work-life balance is a mess. Sound familiar?

The Perfect Resume helped David assess his skills and create a career path that leads to something more fulfilling. With a solid plan, David moved from frustration to excitement.

Then there’s Jane. She quit her job in a huff, thinking she’d find something better. But now she’s unemployed and wishing she’d handled things differently. Career experts at The Perfect Resume helped Jane evaluate her options, reassess her goals, and rebuild her career with a clear, structured plan.

How Can You Plan Your Career When You Don’t Know What You Want to Do?

It’s easy to feel lost in your career. But having a clear plan can make all the difference. Even if you don’t know exactly where you’re heading, The Perfect Resume can help you figure it out. A career plan isn’t just a roadmap—it’s your GPS for the future. It’s time to get your bearings and start moving in the right direction.

5 Reasons Career Planning Is Essential:

1. Achieve Financial Independence: A career plan helps you spot opportunities for growth and salary increases.

2. Gain Clarity and Direction: Understand your values and strengths to pursue a career that feels right.

3. Set Realistic Career Goals: A clear strategy helps you stay on course and avoid unnecessary detours.

4. Create a Plan B: Be prepared for the unexpected with a backup plan.

5. Have an Achievable Plan: Remember, progress takes time, so set realistic goals for yourself.

How to Get Started on Your Career Planning Strategy

Here’s how to get started:

Determine Your Goals: What do you want in your career? What’s important to you?

Research Your Options: Look into roles and industries that align with your interests.

Create a Plan: Write down the steps you need to take to get where you want to go.

Take Action: Start making moves. Update your resume, build your network, and pursue opportunities.

Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re stuck or unsure, The Perfect Resume can help you chart your career path. Book a free consultation today and get started on the journey toward your dream career. You’ve got this.

What are Strategy Jobs?

Strategy jobs are all about developing and implementing plans that help organizations achieve their business objectives. These roles require a strong understanding of the company’s goals, market trends, and the competitive landscape. Strategy professionals work closely with executive teams, often serving as a key member in driving innovation and strategic direction, to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and drive growth. They leverage data analysis, problem-solving, and communication skills to craft strategies that align with the organization’s overall vision. By doing so, they play a key role in steering the company towards long-term success.

Types of Strategy Jobs

In Australia, there are several types of strategy jobs that cater to different aspects of business operations:

Corporate Strategy

Focuses on developing and implementing strategies to drive business growth and profitability. Professionals in this area work on high-level planning and decision-making to ensure the company’s long-term success.

Marketing Strategy

Involves creating and executing marketing plans aimed at reaching target audiences and boosting sales. This role requires a deep understanding of market dynamics and consumer behavior.

Technology Strategy

Centers on developing and implementing technology plans to foster business innovation and operational efficiency. This role is crucial for companies looking to leverage new technologies to stay ahead of the competition.

General Management

Encompasses overseeing the overall strategy and direction of an organization. General managers ensure that all departments align with the company’s strategic goals.

Project Management

Involves managing specific projects to achieve business objectives. Project managers play a critical role in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired quality standards.

Being an early applicant for these roles can significantly increase your chances of securing a position before the competition intensifies.

Where to Find Strategy Jobs

Finding the right strategy job can be a multifaceted process, but there are several effective avenues to explore:

Job Search Platforms

Websites like SEEK, Indeed, and LinkedIn are treasure troves for strategy jobs across various industries. These platforms allow you to filter searches by location, industry, and job title, making it easier to find roles that match your expertise in corporate strategy and other areas.

Company Websites

Many companies, including industry giants like Mastercard and JPMorgan Chase & Co., post their strategy job openings directly on their websites. Regularly checking the careers section of these companies can help you stay updated on new opportunities.

Recruitment Agencies

Specialised recruitment agencies such as Morgan McKinley and Hays have dedicated teams that focus on placing candidates in strategy roles. These agencies can provide personalized job search assistance and connect you with potential employers.

Professional Networks

Networking remains a powerful tool in the job search process. Engaging with professionals in the industry through events, LinkedIn, and professional associations can lead to job opportunities and valuable referrals.

Industry-Specific Job Boards

Platforms like Strategy Jobs in Australia and Corporate Strategy Jobs in Greater Sydney Area cater specifically to strategy roles. These niche job boards can be particularly useful for finding positions tailored to your skills and interests.

Leveraging these resources can enhance your job search strategy and increase your chances of landing a role that aligns with your career goals in the strategy field.

Industries with Strategy Jobs

Strategy professionals are in demand across a variety of industries, each offering unique opportunities to drive business growth and innovation:

Finance and Banking

Companies like JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Mastercard, Inc. rely on strategy professionals to navigate complex financial landscapes and identify growth opportunities. These roles often involve developing strategies to enhance profitability and market share.

Technology

Tech companies such as Sonder and Latitude Financial Services need strategy experts to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. These professionals help in crafting technology strategies that foster innovation and operational efficiency.

Consulting

Management consulting firms like McKinsey & Company and Boston Consulting Group offer strategy services to clients across various sectors. Working in consulting provides exposure to diverse industries and complex business challenges.

Healthcare

Organisations like Forensicare and Aware Super hire strategy professionals to develop and implement strategic plans that improve service delivery and patient outcomes. This sector offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on public health and well-being.

Government

Government agencies, including the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, employ strategy professionals to drive policy and program development. These roles often involve working on initiatives that benefit the public and enhance community services.

Each of these industries presents unique challenges and opportunities for strategy professionals, making it an exciting field with diverse career paths.

Job Titles in Strategy

The strategy field encompasses a variety of roles, each with its own set of responsibilities and focus areas:

Strategy Manager

Tasked with developing and implementing business strategies to drive growth and innovation, strategy managers play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of their organizations.

General Manager - Strategy & Innovation

This role involves overseeing key operational aspects, including strategy planning, innovation, and service delivery. General managers ensure that all departments align with the company’s strategic goals.

Corporate Strategy Manager

Focused on developing and implementing corporate strategies, these professionals work to drive business growth and profitability, often collaborating closely with the executive team.

Business Development Manager

Responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, business development managers play a crucial role in driving growth and revenue.

Project Manager - Strategy

Overseeing projects related to strategy development and implementation, project managers ensure operational efficiency and the successful execution of strategic initiatives.

Marketing Strategy Manager

These professionals develop and implement marketing strategies aimed at driving business growth and customer engagement, requiring a strong understanding of market dynamics and consumer behavior.

Executive Team Member - Strategy

Providing strategic guidance and support to the executive team, these individuals help drive business growth and innovation at the highest levels of the organization.

Strategy Consultant

Offering strategy services to clients across various industries, strategy consultants help businesses develop and implement effective strategies to achieve their goals.

Each of these roles requires a unique blend of skills and expertise, making the strategy field both challenging and rewarding for those who pursue it.

Skills Required for Strategy Jobs

To excel in a strategy job, a diverse set of skills is essential:

Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyse data and identify trends is crucial for developing effective strategies.

Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Clear communication is vital for collaborating with executive teams and other stakeholders.

Strategic Thinking and Innovation: The ability to think strategically and come up with innovative solutions is key to staying competitive.

Strong Understanding of Business Operations and Market Trends: A deep knowledge of how businesses operate, and the latest market trends is essential for crafting relevant strategies.

Collaborative Work Ethic: Working effectively with cross-functional teams ensures that strategies are well-rounded and implementable.

Project Management Skills: Strong project management skills are necessary to oversee the execution of strategic initiatives.

Emerging Trends in Corporate Strategy

The field of strategy is continuously evolving, with several emerging trends shaping its future:

Digital Transformation

Leveraging technology to drive business innovation and efficiency is becoming increasingly important. Companies are investing in digital tools and platforms to stay competitive.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Using data analysis to inform business decisions is a growing trend. This approach helps companies make more informed and effective strategic choices.

Sustainability

Developing strategies that are environmentally and socially responsible is gaining traction. Companies are recognizing the importance of sustainability in their long-term success.

Innovation

Creating new products, services, and business models is essential for driving growth and maintaining competitiveness. Innovation is at the heart of many successful strategies today.

Staying abreast of these trends, strategy professionals can ensure you are well-equipped to drive meaningful change and support projects that lead to business success.

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