How many analysts does PA recruit each year?
This varies each year and between practices. But, in 2008, we recruited approximately 20 analysts in the Nordics, 15 in the US and 30 in the UK.
What graduate opportunities are currently available?
Analysts are our entry-level consulting positions. We advertise vacancies in a range of practice areas each year. The role you apply for will depend on your skills, experience and personal interest. Please refer to Which business area for you? for details of opportunities. To search and apply for current vacancies, please apply online.
What are you looking for in your graduates?
We prefer a minimum 2:1 degree and 300 UCAS points (or equivalent) or a G.P.A of 3.5 or higher. However, we look at applications as a whole with a strong emphasis on relevant work experience. This could include relevant vacation and part time work while studying, internships, industrial placements, or experience since graduating.
PA is committed to recruiting staff solely on the basis of their ability. We seek to employ the best people with different ideas, styles and skill sets in order to ensure innovation and on-going success as a firm. Please refer to Our Diversity for more details on our policy and examples of our people.
Will PA sponsor my work permit?
No. Applicants must already have the unconditional right to live and work in the country to which they are applying.
Do I have to apply to a specific practice?
Yes. You apply for an analyst position within a specific practice.
Which practice should I apply to? How do I find more information about that practice?
Our list of analyst opportunities can be found by clicking Apply online and searching in the region that interests you. Each of the positions listed has a description of the requirements and the type of work involved in being an analyst with that practice. Some, but not all, practices have specific degree requirements, so read this information carefully. There is plenty of information to be found elsewhere on our website about each of the practices, the work they do and the clients we work with. Follow these links for more information about PA, our services and the industries we operate in.
Do you accept degrees from any discipline?
Many of our business areas accept applications from any degree discipline. However our IT and Technology & Innovation practices, for example, prefer mathematics or science-based degrees, such as Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Physics. Check the job specification of the analyst vacancy you are interested in for specific information about the requirements.
I have a PhD/MBA. What is the process for me?
Generally, someone with a postgraduate qualification with little or no relevant experience would still come through our analyst recruitment process. As PA is a meritocracy, if you are able to peform at a higher level you can expect to progress more quickly. If your PhD/MBA is paired with significant relevant experience, we suggest you search Apply online for more senior opportunities in your chosen practice and apply accordingly.
When should I apply?
For UK analyst positions, we prefer to receive applications for 2008 positions by 31 January 2009, but we can accept later applications. If you do apply later, check the roles listed on our website as vacancies will be removed from the site as they are filled. For vacancies in other regions, check the details of the relevant position at Apply online.
How do I apply?
Click on the Apply online button on the right hand side of this page, or follow the application instructions for the position you have seen advertised.
Can I apply for positions in more than one region?
Yes, although you will need to submit a separate application for each vacancy. We also ask that you mention this up front and keep us informed if your situation changes (e.g. if you decide to withdraw one of the applications.)
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, you can submit up to three applications, a separate application for each. The online application form allows you to rank your preferences should you apply for more than one role. Think critically about which practices you wish to apply to and ensure that your application highlights your interest in these areas.
What is the recruitment process?
The recruitment process may vary slightly depending on the country and practice, but in general we use the same three stage process worldwide:
- First stage - recruitment interview and online aptitude tests (verbal and numerical)
- Second stage - an assessment centre where you will join a group of other candidates for interviews, a group exercise and a business case study
- Third stage - interview with a partner from the practice you are applying to.
When can I join?
In practice, most graduates join us between August and November, although this will depend on the practice and the region. These dates coincide with the dates of our graduate training programme.
Can I defer my start date with PA for a year?
Unfortunately we are unable to take applications from candidates wishing to take a year out after accepting a position. However a range of start dates could enable you to do a few months of travelling before you started. If you did want to take a longer period of time out after graduating, we suggest that you apply in the following year’s recruitment round. You should think carefully about timing though, so that you are available for interviews.
Will I get training?
On joining PA, analysts attend an intensive three week global induction programme. This covers essential aspects of business, consulting and interpersonal skills, as well as getting to know more about PA and meeting analysts from other practices and other international offices. Analysts can also take advantage of technical courses related to their practice. As well as your manager to assist you with your development, you will be assigned a Mentor to guide you professionally, and in the first few months you will also have a Buddy who acts as your informal guide.
What's it like as a new analyst in PA?
PA is a fun and challenging place to work. What makes PA different is our people - you can expect to work alongside like-minded, intelligent people who are client and results focused. Our people enjoy the challenge and accountability that a progressive and innovative company such as PA offers. You may sometimes be expected to work long hours to get the job done. However, you are always left with a sense of achievement and will be well rewarded for your contribution to our success.
Does PA offer any work experience opportunities?
PA offers 48 week industrial placements for undergraduates in the UK in their penultimate year of study. These positions are advertised at the same time as our analyst positions, see apply online. In the US and Germany we offer shorter work experience periods or summer internships.
How does the bonus scheme work?
Each year, dependent on personal and company performance, bonuses are paid to staff. Your bonus potential is unlimited and a proportion of your bonus will be paid in shares. For those who do well and amass a high level of shares over time, there is an opportunity to build up significant wealth. The bonus year runs from 1 January to 31 December. Payments are paid in April each year, for the preceding calendar year's contribution and results.
We are committed to giving high financial rewards for outstanding performance and our total compensation package is highly competitive.
You mention owning shares in PA. Are you listed on the stock exchange?
No, PA is a privately owned company that is committed to being fully owned by its employees. It is therefore not appropriate for it to be floated on the stock exchange.
The share price is calculated on a net asset valuation basis and the calculations are then certified by our auditors.
What are the opportunities for travel?
It really does depend (for example on the location/s of your clients) but PA consultants are expected to work anywhere in the world so there are opportunities for overseas travel and, more regularly, domestic travel. The locations are not always glamorous and you could be asked to work anywhere at short notice so flexibility and mobility are essential.
Are there opportunities for formal study or sabbatical leave?
PA offers the opportunity for study breaks and career breaks although there are criteria around minimum length of service, your performance record and the relevance of study to PA’s business. Granting of study breaks and sabbatical leave is at PA’s discretion. We help fund MBA and other business-related qualifications for our most able people where there is a clear need and the programme is flexible enough to accommodate assignment demands. If you choose to undertake part time study that has direct relevance to your work, paid leave to attend exams may also be granted.
What is the dress code?
On a day-to-day basis, business casual dress is the standard. Suits or more formal business dress can be required for some client commitments.
