Pros
Highly talented consultants in the technical areas mostly Respected and highly credible intelligence, law enforcement and security experience Flexible working locations Interesting client base in UK and overseas
Cons
Senior management does not respect the value of experienced hires. Many 'Heads of Profession' lack grounded consulting experience from true consultancy firms and mistake what they are reading in MBA books (too bright to actually do one) as their own work - these people are developing young consultants. Strong focus on not challenging the direction of the firm has meant significant 'elephants in the room' exist with no formal or informal mechnasim to debate the issues. Organisation is not organised to win and has benefitted from growth largely due to luck and reduced fees to win on price. Has an environmental culture of 'happy to advise on that but no time to actually do any work'. Often disloyal to colleagues, peers and team to promote own credibility with clients - a really weak attribute of senior people. Spend little time making bad decisions and no time making good ones. When challenged over HR and people management the firm proudly responded by outsourcing employee relationships to a counselling hotline - completely abdicating management and leadership responsibility. Bonuses never reach anywhere near 20%, often between 5-9% - at a good level. Promotion route is only as good as the last Director of your unit, which changes every 4-6 months - no continuity, and therefor eno respect of career ambition.
