At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead client engagements, drive business growth, and manage consulting teams.
- Company: Dynamic advisory firm focused on financial services and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and make a real impact in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of financial consulting while working with top-tier clients.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years in management consulting or senior industry roles, strong commercial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Senior Director, the Associate Director (AD) of Huntswood’s Advisory Services is a senior leadership role that bridges high-level executive strategy with day-to-day client engagement and delivery team management. They focus on driving business growth, ensuring operational excellence, and leading teams to deliver specialised consulting solutions to clients.
Core Responsibilities
- Pipeline Generation: Proactively identify market opportunities, lead cold and warm outreach, and systematically build a continuous pipeline of qualified enterprise leads, whilst liaising with Sales and Client Services to coordinate approaches.
- End-to-End Deal Conversion: Architect the pitch strategy, write winning commercial proposals, present to C-suite buyers, and negotiate high-value engagement terms to close deals.
- Key Account Farming: Deepen footprints within existing client organisations by cross-selling different advisory pillars and up-selling larger project phases.
- Client Engagement & Strategy: Lead the design and delivery of complex consulting projects, ensuring engagements are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality. Act as a trusted adviser and primary point of contact for key stakeholders.
- Utilisation/Billing: Achieve c40% average billable time across each calendar month.
- Business Development: Drive revenue growth by originating new business, developing pitches/proposals, and expanding relationships with existing clients. Create and promote sector-specific thought leadership.
- Operations & Risk Management: Support the Senior Director in departmental operations. Manage engagement risks, ensure compliance with firm policies, and oversee financial performance such as budgeting and resource allocation.
Key Skills & Requirements
- Commercial Acumen: Strong capability in financial modelling, data analysis, or sector-specific regulatory frameworks.
- Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills to influence client investment decisions and secure stakeholder buy-in.
- Problem Solving: Ability to navigate ambiguity, synthesise complex data into actionable advice, and formulate creative solutions for clients.
- Technology: A working understanding of Customer Relationship Management, Complaint Management Systems and Amazon Web Services is helpful.
- AI: Interest and some exposure to AI would be advantageous.
Experience & Progression
- Background: Typically requires 5 to 8+ years of relevant experience in management consulting in a leading consultancy firm, or a highly regulated senior industry role.
- Regulation: In-depth knowledge of FCA rules and regulation, with a pragmatic view/experience as to their implementation.
- Education: Degree qualified or sufficient industry experience in a relevant role.
Associate Director - Advisory Services in Reading employer: Huntswood
Huntswood is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, where innovation and professional growth are at the forefront. As an Associate Director in Advisory Services, you will benefit from a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and development, alongside competitive remuneration and a strong focus on work-life balance. Located in a vibrant area, our team enjoys access to a wealth of networking opportunities and industry events, making it an ideal place for ambitious professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Advisory Services in Reading
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Associate Director - Advisory Services at Huntswood!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Huntswood or be willing to refer you for that Associate Director - Advisory Services position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Huntswood who’s on the lookout for their next Associate Director - Advisory Services star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Associate Director - Advisory Services role at Huntswood!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Advisory Services in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Huntswood. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Huntswood
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Huntswood. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
