What is the consultant title hierarchy?

Both associate consultant and junior consultant are entry-level roles at most companies. These are reserved for individuals who are fresh out of college and those that lack professional experience.

• Consultant

Consultants normally have several years of experience in their field of expertise and can be considered mid-level to senior-level employees depending on the specific company or consulting agency they work for. These professionals might work on specific projects or with particular clientele, and often report to higher-level consultants for directives and guidance.

• Senior Consultant

Senior consultants usually have a professional history that includes a significant number of years as a consultant or an expert in their field. Many have worked in their industries for 10 years or more. These professionals often take on the responsibility of managing different consulting projects and overseeing teams of lower-level consultants.

• Manager / Principal Consultant

Managerial consultants and principal consultants typically have an abundance of professional experience, both in their specific field, and as a consultant. They are the professionals who tend to be in charge of leading consulting teams or large-scale consulting projects. They also might have duties involving client relationship management and business development.

• Partner / Director Consultant

Partner and director consultants are at the top of the consultant title hierarchy. These are the most senior officials at a consulting firm or company. They are tasked with determining the specific direction the company takes and the overall consulting strategies it employs. These top-level officials also participate in business developments and client relationships.

In addition to the titles above, some consulting firms use other designations to differentiate levels of expertise and responsibility within their hierarchy further. These might include:

• Specialist Consultant

  This may be a role that comes after the consultant position but before the senior consultant role. Specialist consultants are typically individuals who have developed a deep level of expertise in a specific aspect of the field they are consulting in, and they provide specialized advice and solutions to unique problems.

• Lead Consultant

  The lead consultant role often parallels the senior consultant or manager level, but with a greater emphasis on leadership. These individuals are responsible for leading teams of consultants on various projects, making key decisions, and ensuring that projects are completed successfully and on time.

• Executive Consultant

  Executive consultants are typically senior-level professionals who have extensive experience and knowledge in their field. They are often involved in strategic decision-making processes and may work closely with top management or even the board of directors. This role is often seen in larger consulting firms and serves as a step before reaching partner or director consultant.

It's important to note that while this hierarchy gives a general idea of progression in a consulting career, the precise titles and their respective responsibilities can vary widely from one organization to another. Some companies might have additional tiers within this structure or use different terminology altogether.