Why EY Parthenon?

Question

I have first round interviews scheduled with EY Parthenon in 2 weeks.

I searched on their website as well as on google and youtube about what differentiates this firm from other companies. However, there is relatively little information online about this firm and statements about what they do, why somebody should work for them etc. are quite generic, meaning that virtually every consulting firm could make exactly the same statements for themselves as well.

Now, I struggle a bit regarding how to answer the question ''Why EY Parthenon?'' if it comes up in the interview. Things I've been thinking about would be like:

- highly international (offices in >20 countries) despite small size (1600 consultants), correlate this to entrepreneurial culture
- pro-bono consulting projects on their website that I found interesting

I also found out that their main focus in the country I'm interviewing is on media, retail and construction, but I don't really know why this should be a reason to choose the firm (I was thinking of mentioning focus on consumer products & retail and elaborate on the variety of products/business models as well as the high number of dynamics to consider, based on cases I've practiced in this sector, but I'm not sure if this would be persuading enough)

Also, they have a quite flexible working hour model which they emphasize on their website, implying they care about work-life-balance, but I'm not sure if this would be a good idea to mention in the interview

Unfortunately, I also haven't had the chance to talk to consultants, this would otherwise cover a big part of my answer...

Does anybody have an idea what specific reasons to work for Parthenon could be?

Answer 1

Hi,

Here are some other ideas that you can use to structure your thoughts:

You can start with general facts about the local office. Something like “Sidney office is the fastest growing McKinsey office worldwide.”
If you have an interest in a particular industry or client this may also be a great reason. For example, BCG can be the only consulting firm working with airlines in your region.
You may address the different Global opportunities and office initiatives. E.g. international staffing can be a good opportunity to learn about business in a particular country
Try to combine professional and Non-business rational. If you have friends working in that company, don’t forget to mention them and what you’ve learned from their experience.
You may use your other personal experiences like working with this BCG, it's deliverables or as it's client
You can provide your personal experience of working with Alums
Initiatives (McKinsey women / LGBT / etc. initiatives)

Good luck!

Answer 2

I used to work for EY-Parthenon and was very passioned about their unique strategic positioning / value proposition, and also know well their story and even met the founder on one occasion.

So I am more than happy to setup a quick chat and share with you (or anyone else who sees this post) and share my thoughts on the company. Just send me a note and we'll setup the time.

Answer 3

Hello!

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Answer 4

Hi Goat, I do not have direct experience with OC&C, however from what I have heard the standard process involves at... (read entire answer)

Hi Goat, I do not have direct experience with OC&C, however from what I have heard the standard process involves at least two rounds, with two cases in each of them and fit qu... (read entire answer)

Answer 5

Hi Anonymous, The notion of prestige is debatable, but assuming it refers to the general perception of the brand, t... (read entire answer)

Hi Anonymous, The notion of prestige is debatable, but assuming it refers to the general perception of the brand, the only two firms with a strong consulting brand between the... (read entire answer)

Answer 6

Hi Anonymous, the usual process at Parthenon EY consists of: First round based on case + fit Second round base... (read entire answer)

Hi Anonymous, the usual process at Parthenon EY consists of: First round based on case + fit Second round based on: Case + fit Group presentation (prepare in team a... (read entire answer)