So You Want To Be A Life Sciences Industry Consultant?

By Rob Wright, Life Science Leader magazine

With the vast number of layoffs which have been the recent plague of the pharmaceutical industry, many management-level folks find that their industry knowledge and insider access positions them well for consulting. And why not? When CNNMoney asked what the best jobs in America are, management consulting ranks in the top three — behind software architect and physician assistant. The money is not bad either. Salaries for consulting vary, depending upon experience and industry. A typical range is from 50K to more than 200K, ranking it as one of the top 20 highest-paying jobs. And thus, the allure of consulting — good money, great job satisfaction, and the barrier to entry is limited only by your past experience. But do you really have what it takes? — because consulting has its downside as well. For example, one of the U.S.-based consultants with whom I spoke was calling me from overseas. The grueling travel, late hours, and punishing deadlines can put a tremendous strain on those with family commitments. Another downside seems to be that just about anybody can claim the title of consultant, thereby diminishing the credibility of the profession.

Used with permission from Life Science Leader magazine.