Has anyone here have personal experience or knows someone who has downshifted?I currently work for a large consultancy and previously was in a strategy role in industry. Lots of generalist experience but no core functional experience. Want to reduce my travel. Already have enough money.As I see it the two extremes are senior roles (all in London) versus manning the checkout at my local Tesco.I feel there should be something in between but career roles all seem to want someone who is on the way up not on the way down. Any suggestions?

Done it myself for "personal reasons" about 5 years ago. If you're not 100% reliant on a regular monthly salary but still enjoy the cut & thrust go for an Associate position with either a niche or small consulting company. I did this a few years ago and now control my own destiny in terms of assignments and time commitment. Re travel, I think that has actually gone up in terms of distance (Oz, China, etc) but timed largely to suit my needs as well - a bit of holiday tagged on always.

LAB - you seem to have got it all. Care to let us know how you negotiated this enviable position. What kind of consultancies offer such terms of contract (is it a contract?)?

Nobody has it all "envious" - just a different perspective on life now. 25+ years in a specific industry sector with last 10 in consulting (made my bucks overseas - not megabucks but comfortable). "Grey-beard" (literally) status. Effectively self-employed now, work from home (and a suitcase) and Associate with several good niche companies - specific contracts for individual jobs, all non-exclusive but also non-competitive on same bid/job. You have to do your time first.