Oxford Saïd Offers Exceptional Career Support for Future Consultants

The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, in the United Kingdom, provides robust academic and career support. The school offers tailored resources for MBAs with ambitious career goals. With end-to-end coaching and employer engagement, Oxford Saïd excels when it comes to MBA recruitment. This makes it a top choice for aspiring consultants.

James Nugent’s Role in the Consulting Development Program 

In a recent interview with MBAGRADSCHOOLS, James Nugent, Interim Director of the Career Development Centre at Oxford Saïd, shared about shaping Oxford Saïd’s consulting career strategy.

James leads the Consulting Development Program (CDP) and aligns it with global recruitment standards for MBA applicants

He builds industry partnerships, mentors students, and supports them through case coaching, networking, and career planning. Nugent’s insights bridge academia and industry, ensuring an Oxford MBA prepares graduates for top consulting roles. 

Your Consulting Edge Starts at Oxford Saïd

Oxford Saïd ranks among the top business schools worldwide. The school offers a rigorous curriculum, global alumni network, and strong consulting ties. This fosters growth through research, workshops, and leadership experiences.

Nugent states, “The MBA year is a fantastic time to secure consulting project experience. [This] can be very valuable in future job searches and opportunities. Through that, we are able to really leverage the wider Oxford University ecosystem.” (02:47)

Oxford Saïd’s experiential learning builds problem-solving skills, making graduates highly sought after by leading consulting firms.

The Consulting Development Program at Oxford Saïd

Oxford Saïd’s Consulting Development Program (CDP) offers a structured path to consulting careers. Online modules, workshops, and coaching are accessible before, during, and after the MBA.

Consulting remains a top choice for graduates, with 27.2% securing roles in 2022-23. The average UK consulting salary reached £94,500. This is a 13% increase from the previous year, according to the MBA Employment Report 2022-23.

“We run our program through an initiative called the Consulting Development Program. That is both an online learning module, which students can access before, during, and after the program. As well as one-to-one [sessions] and workshops during the year of the program.” (01:02)

With strong industry ties, Oxford Saïd attracts major consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain. This ensures students are well-prepared for competitive consulting roles.

Pre-MBA Preparation and Case Interview Coaching

Oxford Saïd offers pre-program resources to help students prepare for the consulting recruitment process.

“We also offer workshops that run through the summer before they join with us. That can include anything from introducing them to the consulting sector as a whole, to actual case workshops, [and] getting them prepared for those very important case interviews.” (02:00)

Given the one-year MBA format, early preparation is critical. Students receive guidance through summer workshops, case-based coaching, and interview preparation.

Summer workshops, led by former top-firm consultants, introduce students to industry expectations, methodologies, and problem-solving. This provides real-world insights and case-solving techniques.

Consulting interview coaching from experts covers structured problem-solving, market sizing, and analytical reasoning. Students learn through case studies, live practice, feedback, and networking with successful consultants.

Leveraging Oxford Saïd’s Consulting Ecosystem

Oxford Saïd connects MBA students with consulting projects through its extensive network and industry partnership. This provides real-world experience and career-building opportunities.

Student-Led Consulting Projects: Oxford Strategy Group & CapitOx

Oxford Strategy Group and CapitOx offer valuable consulting projects to Oxford MBA students. Student-led groups tackle real business challenges, enhancing analytical and problem-solving skills through client projects. This hands-on experience strengthens consulting applications and provides practical exposure before full-time roles.

James highlights, “We work very closely with some of the big societies at the universities, such as CapitOx and Oxford Strategy Group. Through those networks and connections, students can get a number of consulting project experiences through the year, which is very valuable.” (03:02)

Engaging in these projects strengthens consulting applications, making students more competitive for full-time roles in the industry.

Internship Opportunities with Top Consulting Firms

Beyond student-led initiatives, Oxford Saïd facilitates introductions to internships with leading consulting firms. Through recruitment events, alumni engagement, and career coaching, students gain access to real-world consulting experiences and exposure to diverse methodologies.

“We also support students [with] securing internships… We promote opportunities, we facilitate interactions on campus and try and get as many of those opportunities in front of students as possible.” (03:18)

Participation in these consulting initiatives enhances industry exposure, builds professional networks, and develops key consulting skills. As a result, Oxford MBA graduates enter the job market with a highly competitive edge, well-prepared for full-time consulting roles.

Unlimited Access to Consulting Career Support

Oxford Saïd offers personalized coaching at every stage of the consulting journey. Oxford Saïd helps students refine applications, develop skills, and navigate career paths.

Top-tier advisers from McKinsey, BCG, and Bain provide insider insights, industry trend analysis, and leadership development. This equips students with the knowledge and strategy to succeed in a competitive market. Regular sessions help them strengthen their personal brand, adapt to market shifts, and prepare for high-stakes interviews.

Master Consulting at The University of Oxford, Saïd Business School

Oxford Saïd equips students for consulting through mentorship, case interview prep, and employer engagement. Its strong alumni network and industry ties ensure future career success, making it a top choice for aspiring consultants.

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