Port Jackson Partners Reviews

Pros

High quality client base with a truly low leverage model which enables junior consultants to work closely with world class partners Excellent workplace culture

Cons

Limited overseas transfer opportunities Lacking some non-salary benefits of larger firms

Pros

- High proportion of strategy projects: Opportunity to work on complex and interesting problems. This combined with the low leverage model of being able to work directly with partners in a small team (typically 2-4 people)means fantastic exposure and learning development. - Broad range of industries: Typically ASX 100 and expansion into public sector - Fantastic colleagues: High calibre, genuine and supportive colleagues - Great work life balance: Able to meet commitments outside of work most nights of the week and work from home if need be. Staffing is also supportive of project preferences (e.g, travel etc.) - Strong brand: Well-recognised particularly among Australian senior executives - International work: Avaliable for those inclined. International projects have ranged from US, London, China, Singapore and NZ in the past 2-3 years. An opportunity to do an exchange with Qvartz is also available for consultants 2-4 years in.

Cons

- Long hours for consulting but better than most

Pros

Interesting and important work across a wide range of topics/industries, including corporate and government. Most projects address major strategic questions that are top priorities for CEOs, boards, or government bodies Teams are small (typically 2-4 people), meaning significant exposure to partners and senior clients, and usually insight into the whole project rather than just a small section (as is typical at larger firms) Genuinely interesting and interested colleagues, and a strong focus on firm culture. No quotas for promotions like some companies… you’re only measured against your own development, and supported where needed. Non-traditional backgrounds (e.g. PhD, medicine, engineering) are common at all levels Every effort made to accommodate project preferences (e.g. wanting to work overseas, or needing to avoid long-term travel projects) Relatively flat hierarchy and lack of bureaucracy mean there are real opportunities to personally make an impact

Cons

Working on critical problems for clients can sometimes demand more than standard 9-5 hours and/or work intensity Small teams (and boutique firm) mean that there can be some extra ‘legwork’ required (e.g. research, formatting charts). However, you will become an Excel/PowerPoint ninja

Pros

Top-tier boutique strategy firm, with purest focus on CEO/board-level strategy (>70%) of all the top-tier firms (McKinsey, BCG and Bain). The work is incredibly interesting and delivered with exceptionally high quality. Increasingly performing impactful and interesting government work. Fantastic opportunities to work closely with senior directors and clients. Teams are typically only 2-4 people, so far less chance of being drowned out in a team of 10-15 typical of the global firms. Solid investment (talent, time + money) in people and culture, some outstanding and unique leadership in this respect. Culture is quite supportive and collaborative, not hyper-competitive and ruthless. Brand new technologically-enabled office with stunning Sydney harbour views. Extensive international exposure for those who want it. About 30% of the work is international, and there are longer-term exchange opportunities with Scandinavian boutique top-tier firm QVARTZ. Not stifling and bureaucratic in the slightest.

Cons

Mostly typical consulting cons - client service can be challenging and demanding at times. Smaller scale means some 'nice' corporate support goes wanting (e.g. research or production support), but you quickly realise this isn't a big deal. No internationally recognised brand name (although the brand is very strong in senior executive circles in Australia).

Pros

The office atmosphere is very friendly and I have found the environment to be very supportive. I enjoy the opportunity to work on challenging projects and think about complex problems. Typically projects are run with small teams which gives junior people exposure to interesting problems and ideas. Very high quality of consultants and clients.

Cons

Often a steep learning curve after first joining, because people join from a diverse range of backgrounds and have to pick up technical skills quite quickly.