| Jared Rodriguez Nicholas 2004 | |
| McKinsey & Company |
Briefly describe your current position with McKinsey & Co. and the process of interviewing and accepting a position with McKinsey.
I became a firm member of McKinsey & Company during the last quarter of 2004. My role as an Associate Consultant with the firm is truly fascinating; so far, my responsibilities have included the assessment of various industries as well as diagnosis of certain issues that are reshaping these industries in the Caribbean Basin Region. Current consulting work includes strategies on wealth management, insurance, and wireless telecommunications in the Caribbean.
The interview process for a position as associate with McKinsey started during March of 2004, my last semester as a Nicholas student. Since my priority after graduation was to move to Puerto Rico, I initiated a network of contacts as early as I could through family, friends, previous work colleagues, and management recruiting firms in Puerto Rico.
I interviewed with Improve Searches of Puerto Rico, a management recruiting firm who contacted me a few days after receipt of my cover letter and resume. A lady by the name of Maria Ortiz interviewed me over the phone for about half an hour, and that same day sent me an email requesting that I contact her as soon as I arrive in Puerto Rico. I did just that.
I met with Ms. Ortiz in early June, but it wasn't until August that I was called upon to attend a second interview screening. I was scheduled to meet with engagement managers and associate principals of McKinsey. This was the real thing; a consulting interview with McKinsey!
The interview was about eight hours long. It included a 45 minute Individual Problem Solving (IPS) written examination that covered topics on marketing, strategy, operations, and of course, finance. The examination was followed by four individual interviews on business issues.
I successfully concluded this round of interviews and a few weeks later, met on a Friday evening with two of the regional partners for a last round of interviews. This interview was more about communication styles and "fit" with the organization.
In hindsight, what was the most valuable aspect of the Nicholas experience in regard to your current position and your future ambitions?
I consider the most valuable aspect of the Nicholas program to be the exposure to real business issues and the role of students as consultants. Apart from the theory learned, having to work with short deadlines, identifying individual team players' strengths, narrowing down the issues to one or two items to focus on, and communicating your ideas effectively and in a timely manner are qualifications needed to be successful as a consultant and/or business professional. The Nicholas experience has allowed me to learn and practice these valuable skills, which have allowed me to transition smoothly into the consulting business.
Having been part of the Nicholas Center has enlightened my career aspirations greatly. I am certain that without the exposure that I had in the center, I would not have succeeded in the interview process with McKinsey & Company. The accomplishment of becoming an associate for a prestigious consulting firm is proof that applying to the Nicholas Center was an excellent decision. I feel confident that I can take on any professional challenges and provide valuable results.
What has been your most significant professional achievement to date?
In the two months I've been with the firm, I have prepared an internal document called a "Fact Pack" for the insurance industry and electric segment of the utilities industry. The document summarizes various aspects of the industry, such as size, growth, competitive space, challenges, and other business metrics. I succeeded in utilizing a Structure-Conduct-Performance framework that allowed me to identify issues that limit the industries' potential for expansion and growth in the Caribbean. The document was presented to an Associate Principal and the Regional Partner and, after highlighting and discussing key issues, the San Juan office was able to set priorities on contacts to be made and studies to be conducted during the next fiscal year.
What career advice would you give to current Nicholas students?
Be confident. Be ahead of the game. Start to narrow down the opportunities available to you and identify the ones you feel passionate about. Recognize your achievements and strengths and capitalize on them in your resume and interviews. While in the Nicholas program, value collaborative thinking and team efforts. The value proposition of the Nicholas Center rests in not only the knowledge acquired, but also the exposure to real business situations, company management, and your ability to successfully provide solutions/suggestions based on research, valuation analyses, scenario comparisons, sensitivity analysis, and industry assessments. Identify key learning's from each project you work on.
What was your most memorable experience during your Nicholas career?
There are various experiences worth remembering: our first group meeting, the first Nicholas presentation, meeting with prospective students, BBQ at the Hinderaker's house, and talking about the projects over a mug of beer at Brother's. But one that I will always be fond of is the 2003 Jingle Bell Run. It was a great event to interact with first-year students and peers from Nicholas, as well as with Jim and Cindie. This event allowed us to have fun while giving back to the community. It also allowed us to come together outside of the Nicholas meetings and get to know each other in an informal setting. I really enjoyed the interactions we had as a group. To some extent, this was an event that allowed us to lean more about the character and commitment we all brought to the projects.
More Featured Alumni Interviews |
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