Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Case Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Career switch from AE at SaaS startup to entry-level MBB?

Currently wondering if there a decent chance for me to land an MBB entry-level role if I apply/network. 

Experience: 

  • Currently an Account Executive at SaaS startup (~$150m ARR)
  • Promoted from SDR to AE earlier this year
  • Previously was Analyst/Consultant at Big 4 for ~1.5 years
  • ~1 year as an SDR at another company before that

3.7 GPA from non-target school, 180 on the LSAT (didn’t go to law school so not sure if this matters)

Does anyone have any insight as to how my application would be viewed? Wondering if it is worth my time to apply and network with folks or if my application will just go straight to the trash. 

Thanks!

3 Answers
100+ Views
31
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
on Nov 02, 2024
+600 Interviews | Free 30-min alignment call | Ex-Principal & Member of the Recruiting task force | 360° Coaching

Hi there,

First, consider asking yourself why consulting appeals to you - whether it’s the learning curve, the problem-solving, or the prestige of working at MBB. This clarity might open up other excellent options beyond MBB.

Your background as an Account Executive demonstrates strong client-facing skills, and your analytical experience at the Big 4 aligns well with consulting demands. While a non-target school can be a hurdle, your 3.7 GPA could help offset this.

In your application, highlight consulting-relevant skills like drive, analytical thinking, and adaptability, using specific examples. 
Connecting with people in your network at MBB is also worth pursuing, they can provide insights and possibly support your application.

If you’d like further advice on your CV or application in general, feel free to reach out - I offer a free 30-minute session.

And remember, if you don’t try, it’s a “no” from the start.

All the best,
Kairavee

Javier
Coach
on Nov 02, 2024
1st session: -30% | Best Price/Value | Ex-BCG | All time zones

Hi!

Thank you for your question.

I think you have a strong foundation, and here’s how your background and approach could appeal to MBB:

  • Relevant Experience: Your AE role at a $150M ARR startup highlights client-facing skills that consulting values. Your promotion from SDR to AE shows drive and capability, and your Big 4 consulting stint aligns well with MBB expectations.
  • Academics: Although from a non-target school, your 3.7 GPA and LSAT 180 demonstrate solid analytical ability, which MBB will appreciate.
  • Networking: This will be key. Aim to connect with MBB professionals, ideally with SaaS or Big 4 backgrounds like yours, and leverage these relationships to help you secure an interview.

Networking can open the door to the interview stage; once you’re there, your performance in solving cases will be what really matters.

Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.

All the best,
Javier

Florian
Coach
on Nov 04, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 500+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

I think it all comes down to networking with a profile like that. There is definitely a chance here but you are competing with more target-profile candidates.

I would definitely network to establish my market value. Do so in a targeted way and reach out to relevant folks via LinkedIn or your network, ideally in a similar area or with a similar focus. There could be specific demand for your profile and expertise.

Cheers,

Florian

Similar Questions
Consulting
Looking to Lateral to MBB After A Year of Trading at an Investment Bank
on Nov 05, 2024
USA
5 Answers
100+ Views
Top answer by
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
47
5 Answers
100+ Views
+2
Consulting
How Long Does It Take Bain To Respond to Application
on Nov 20, 2024
USA
5 Answers
100+ Views
Top answer by
Ex-BCG Project Leader - BOS, Exp. Hire, Energy/Climate & Sustainability | Trained Interviewer | Free 15min Consultation
25
5 Answers
100+ Views
+2
Consulting
Need some consulting career advice post McKinsey (I'm currently a Consultant at McKinsey)
on Nov 07, 2024
USA
6 Answers
400+ Views
Top answer by
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
66
6 Answers
400+ Views
+3
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
You are a true consultant! Thank you for consulting us on how to make PrepLounge even better!