RIYADH: Thanks to Saudi Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is undergoing an ambitious transformation. This initiative has boosted the growth of the consulting industry, creating new opportunities in areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, infrastructure development and economic diversification.
As a result, consulting has become an increasingly attractive career for young Saudi graduates who recognize opportunities in this sector.
Mohammed Al-Abdullah, a youth advisor at Jacobs, is advising new graduates to consider their career path. “Working as a consultant in Saudi Arabia offers a unique set of experiences and opportunities compared to other countries or regions,” he said.
“In Saudi Arabia, the business environment is highly relationship-oriented, and building trust and strong personal relationships with clients is critical.”
Al-Abdullah, who previously worked in the US, returned to Saudi Arabia in 2021 to contribute to the ongoing transformation. During his time as a process manufacturing manager at a steel company in Riyadh, he collaborated with consulting giant McKinsey to oversee an Industry 4.0 transition, which sparked his enthusiasm for consulting and digital transformation.
He later joined Jacobs' strategic consulting advisory team and Smart Cities team, as well as taking on leadership roles in the Riyadh office. “Saudi Arabia's consulting industry has seen significant growth in recent years, creating many opportunities for young professionals,” Al Abdullah said.
For example, Jacobs has a graduate development program that helps mentor young Saudis to develop the necessary skills and knowledge they need. It provides them with practical experience, exposure to the industry, and guidance from experienced mentors.
According to Al-Abdullah, success as an engineering consultant requires a blend of technical expertise and soft skills such as engineering knowledge, project management, analytical skills, technical writing, effective communication, client management and teamwork. These can be developed through education, training, internships, graduate programs, networking and mentorship.
With the rapid growth of the consulting industry in Saudi Arabia and the opportunities presented by Saudi Vision 2030, young Saudi graduates would do well to consider a career there.
Hashim Jambi, a 26-year-old technology consultant at PwC, specializes in organizational technology, including digital transformation, cyber security and IT.
“What I enjoy most is staying current with emerging technologies that can enhance an organization's daily workflow. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with experts in the field provides valuable insight into best practices and market improvements,” said Jambi.
“The initial learning curve is particularly steep, allowing for rapid knowledge acquisition and significant professional growth. Furthermore, you develop strong networking skills by meeting a variety of professionals who can have a substantial impact on your career.”
Jambi believes that a career in consulting provides young Saudis with valuable developmental experiences at the start of their professional journey.
“As a consultant, you will have the opportunity to interact with high-level officials and experts in various fields, learning from them will provide an excellent foundation for your career,” he explained.
Other advantages Jambi offers include diverse industries, networking opportunities, early responsibility and continuous learning experiences. It helped young mentors “develop critical adaptability and strategic thinking skills, equipping them to become successful leaders at a young age.”
The diversity of experiences and challenges also “builds resilience and innovation, further preparing them for future leadership roles and successful career paths,” he said.
Another successful Saudi consultant is Mala Alhammadi, who leads Jacobs' strategic consulting social value advisory group in the Middle East region. Alhamadi began her career as a civil and environmental engineer on projects with nonprofit organizations, then moved into roles with government and international organizations.
Through her diverse experience, Alhamadi has led transformative initiatives and projects to achieve sustainable results, address critical natural resource issues, and develop strategies, policies and action plans in multiple countries.
She has also provided sustainable and climate-resilient solutions for development projects, organizations, businesses and developing countries, using her skills to improve communities' quality of life and mitigate climate change.
Alhamadi holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Kansas and a master's degree from Stanford University. At Jacobs, she leads a team focused on “adding social value to our work in areas such as the built environment, planning and economics, and health, housing, education, transportation, and infrastructure.”
When asked what advice she would give young Saudis about a career in consulting, she said: “Be your authentic self, connect with others, ask questions, and stay focused on your vision and higher purpose. Always push your limits to learn and grow.”
Sadim Safar al-Sofani also shared his experience in the field of consulting. “In 2019, I joined Boston Consulting Group as a business analyst, a decision that paved the way for my success,” said the 27-year-old. “The experience was challenging but rewarding, as I quickly learned key consulting skills such as problem solving, communication, and providing solutions.”
He found the networking opportunities to enhance his professional reputation and open doors invaluable: “Consulting firms are recognized for preparing graduates for any situation, as the work focuses on problem solving and analysis in various fields.”
Al-Sofani added: “I encourage young Saudi students to consider starting their careers in consulting as it provides invaluable experience, even if it is not a lifelong commitment.”
Exposure to different industries and opportunities to work with high-level executives and subject matter experts were among the key benefits, she said: “The steep learning curve allows for rapid skill development and professional growth, which can set young professionals up for success. Whether they stay in consulting or elsewhere The paths they choose to follow.”
Al-Sofani's experience highlights the value a consulting role can provide. The transferable skills, networking opportunities, and exposure to a wide range of industries make it an attractive option, even if it's not a long-term career choice.
