Escient

Starting this financial year, they have rolled out a transparent progression pathway. For new employees, this will be great - it will provide visibility. However, the transition has not been good. Since this financial year with the new framework, progression is not only based on merit. It is based on Merit and tenure, leaving no space for people who are particularly good and move along faster. All the people form the cohort will move along at the same pace and climb through the ranks at the same pace. What makes me want to excel? The fact that they consider merit and tenure (and apply a boxed limited that you cannot bypass) is disheartening. Graduates need to be aware that after their 12 months as a grad, they will need to wait for 28 months before going for a Senior Consultant role. It is really impeding progression of people who would be ready to advance at a different pace. As a graduate from a Masters and having previous work experience, this is really upsetting to not be recognised internally like this. I know from conversations that this has not only impacted me, but most people in the more junior roles anticipate this will reduce their tenure with Escient.

As soon as we finish the graduate year (unless we fail and do it *really bad*), we transition into level 1 consultants. It is pretty clear about the promotion possibilities and salary potentials as well. In terms of career aspirations it does provide opportunity for us to develop professionally according to what you like to do or feel like exploring.

There is a clear promotion pathway and expectations set about what you need to achieve to apply for a promotion. I feel that I have a clear idea of what my career progression would look like at Escient, and there are opportunities to specialise (and change your specialty) throughout your career.