I have a offer to join a leading FS software firm as a professional services consultant.Can someone please tell me how is this viewed at generally? I understand that it revolves around implementation of products but there are still generic BA and PM skills in use.I am working as a BA/PM for a IT services company and have worked for investment banks in that role. Ultimately I would like to go contracting, though I feel I may be less experienced for contracting at this stage.Would this position allow me to do that in some years? What are the other options if can go into?

Yes - it should help develop your intended move to contracting as long as your role is a recognisable one - BA, Technical Architect or PM would be ideal. The main obstacle people hit when trying to move into contracting is finding that they are too much of a generalist.Having experience of software implementations is another strong contracting skill, particularly if the software is recognised in the industry.Finally it is also further develop your experience in FS - this industry is both one of the biggest users of contractors and also historically one that pays a premium for those with industry experience.

Mr Cool.Thanks as always.Do you know which one could be better, a BA/PM role with an IT consultancy where utlisation is above your career aspirations, role etc or professional services role with a software firm ?

Which one would be a better platform to move into contracting?There is not much difference, but I’d give a slight edge to the Prof Svcs job IF (note the IF) it is more likely to be business facing. Coming from a pure IT background will limit you to winning IT contract positions. The prof svcs firm might allow you to position yourself for both tech AND business BA/PM roles. This doubles your options. Also day rates in the business roles are often slightly higher and progression to Programme Manager is more likely.

Great, thanks Mr Cool.