Best Company I've ever worked for - Avis employé Consultant Systems Evolution

Local leadership (the Managing Director and Managing Principal) is fantastic, and the CEO is pretty cool too. It is hard to fully explain, but I have never worked at a place where leadership is so genuinely supportive, instead of just saying they are. This is true for not just management, but all of my colleagues. Leadership is also very transparent, rather than just claiming to be. It is very refreshing, and I am still surprised that my positive experience has lasted for almost a year with the company. The work is hard, but the support from my direct team and the great teamwork and friendship here really help reduce consulting stress. I also appreciate that management works hard (and usually succeeds) to put consultants on projects that fit their skills and interests: this makes each project much more rewarding.

The Associate Program is new and still being developed. It can feel a bit messy, and there isn't a clear career path progression yet, which introduces a level of uncertainty. The program was started without a full plan for how to run it long-term (leadership openly shared this with us, which is a great example of the transparency I appreciate). Even so, I can see that leadership is working hard to improve the program. While there is still a long way to go, I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced consultants; they have all been incredibly welcoming, patient, and supportive. Honestly, these are the only real cons I have experienced so far.

SEI is a very ownership-based culture. You are in charge of your own destiny. You build relationships with your clients. You work with them on your extension. You help build the business by identifying business development opportunities and helping to recruit. The success of SEI depends on all of us. Because of this ownership mindset, SEI attracts elite talent that supports one another to help make each other better. SEI is very transparent about its business, more than any other consultancy I've encountered. The pipeline, the health of the business, planning future state -- it's all laid out on the table for everyone to weigh in on. Everyone has a say on the direction of SEI. Compensation is competitive, transparent, and fair. It's very clear what it takes to get promoted, and that definition aligns with the expectations that leadership sets when you are hired. I'll be the first to say that this model isn't for everyone. For those who gravitate towards the ownership format, SEI gives you the space and support to thrive.

SEI's ownership model can feel demanding for those who prefer more structured guidance. Your success requires proactive networking and self-direction, which may be challenging for some.