At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global consulting and consumer research, driving strategic direction and team growth.
- Company: IWSR, the leading source of data on the global beverage alcohol market.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, flexible work, annual bonuses, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to represent IWSR at major industry events.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in a growing global practice with industry impact.
- Qualifications: Proven consulting experience, strong leadership skills, and P&L accountability.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About IWSR
IWSR is the leading source of data and analysis on the global beverage alcohol market. Our research and consulting teams work with the world's biggest drinks companies, helping them understand market trends, consumer behaviour and growth opportunities across every major category and region. IWSR is part of WGSN, the world's leading consumer trend forecaster, bringing together deep beverage alcohol expertise with global trend forecasting and data science capability.
The Role
We are looking for a Head of Consulting to lead IWSR's global consulting and bespoke consumer research practice. This is one of the most senior commercial leadership roles in the business, spanning strategic consulting and consumer research, with full P&L accountability. You will lead a team of around 20 people worldwide and act as a credible external face for IWSR at client and industry level, including press and major industry events. You will report to the SVP of Mindset & Global Accounts, working closely with the wider leadership team, and will take on the role at a pivotal moment as the practice's scope continues to grow from a European consulting base into a truly global mandate.
What You'll Do
- Own the strategic direction and commercial performance of IWSR's global consulting and consumer research practice, with full P&L responsibility.
- Lead, develop and grow a team of around 20 consulting and research professionals across multiple regions.
- Build and maintain senior client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor to the world's leading beverage alcohol companies.
- Drive new business development, identifying and winning new consulting mandates alongside the existing client base.
- Represent IWSR externally at industry events, in the press and in senior client presentations.
- Work closely with the SVP of Mindset & Global Accounts and the wider leadership team to shape the future direction of the practice.
What We're Looking For
We're primarily looking for a consultant first: someone who has built their career in strategic or commercial consulting, ideally with beverage alcohol or wider FMCG client experience, or who can clearly demonstrate the ability to onboard quickly into a new sector.
Requirements
- Proven track record as a Director or Principal at a strategy or boutique consultancy.
- Experience leading client-facing engagements and owning senior relationships.
- P&L or revenue ownership in a current or recent role.
- Experience leading teams of 10 or more people.
- Strong executive presence, confident presenting to C-suite audiences, clients and media.
- Track record of winning and running commercial or advisory mandates.
Nice to Have
- Direct exposure to beverage alcohol or FMCG clients, even if partial.
- Experience scaling a team beyond 10 people, or managing teams across multiple regions.
- A track record of representing a business externally, for example press, panels or industry events.
- Experience operating in a global or multi-market consulting mandate.
We would also welcome applications from senior operators within the beverage alcohol industry who have made a deliberate pivot into consulting or commercial advisory work, and who can demonstrate strong client-facing and commercial mandate experience alongside category expertise.
Benefits
- Generous time off: 25 days holiday plus bank holidays and a company‑wide end‑of‑year break.
- Flexible work environment: Hybrid working model 3 days a week in office with flexible hours.
- Comprehensive perks: Annual bonus scheme, pension, regular social events, and a volunteering policy.
- Growth opportunities: Lots of learning and development opportunities.
Head of Consulting employer: IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited
IWSR is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the global beverage alcohol market. With generous benefits including 25 days of holiday, a flexible hybrid working model, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. As the Head of Consulting, you will lead a talented team while representing IWSR at industry events, making a significant impact in a pivotal role that combines strategic consulting with global reach.
Contact Details:
IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Consulting
✨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 Head of Consulting at IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited!
✨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 IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited or be willing to refer you for that Head of Consulting 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 IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited who’s on the lookout for their next Head of Consulting 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 Head of Consulting role at IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Consulting
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 IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited. 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 IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited
✨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 IWSR Drinks Market Analysis Limited. 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!
