Was wondering what people here think of the Civil Service Fast Steam as opposed to strategy consultancy... am working in strategy but thinking of joining the civil service as I'm interested in public sector work rather than continuing to help making fat cats fatter for the rest of my life. However, if I chose to go back to strategy specialising in govt (such as PA consulting), how do strat houses view Fast Stream? Backward irrelevant deviation? Anyone done this?

With the reasons for the move you describe, this seems like an appropriate move. Fast Stream candidates are likely to be attractive for hiring back into consulting. There are a wide range of abilities and levels of career motivation on the Fast Stream, but given that you are presumably of a decent calibre to have got into consulting in the first place, and given your career motivation, you could probably get good mileage from the programme. Fast Stream is one of the few graduates programmes that still genuninely fast-streams people if they are up for it - not very fashionable or egalitarian, but good for your career.

Goforit - I agree; what is more, the practical experience should actually make you stand out in the crowd should you return to consulting - it's a highly respected and laudable route (the CS Fast Track) frankly comparable to the development you would obtain in consulting anyway. I have myself done backward irrelevant deviation, but only with accomodating ladies on weekends. Kidding :-)Better to make the move sooner rather than later, and McKinsey et al DO hire people from the civil service at senior levels, as do major industry firms, as specialist consultants and advisors; there are also other interesting routes to follow on - think tanks, corporate advisory roles (which would give you direct access to plc board level), pressure groups, lobbying etc. Fascinating stuff!!!

Hi,I have worked with, albeit not for, consultancy firms and the civil service. The work cultures could hardly be more different! I would highly recommend that you find out what the two cultures are like before deciding. Otherwise you could be very unhappy!Cheers

Hi, Can you elaborate on what you feel are the main differences in culture are? have you experience with the Fast Stream? Many thanks

Wow! I never realised that being a backward, irrelevant deviant would qualify me so well for a job in the civil service. Maybe I don’t need to try to grind my way into consulting after all!