Banking graduate program vs consulting position in UK – which provides stronger opportunities when moving back to India?

Management consulting Management consulting careers and networking
1

Hello everyone,

I’m looking for guidance on career choices as someone planning to eventually return to India after gaining UK experience.

My situation:

  • Indian national currently in the UK
  • Previously worked for 1 year at an international strategy/analytics company in India (healthcare sector)
  • Recently finished MSc in Business Analysis from a top UK university
  • Currently on 2-year post-study visa
  • Long-term goal is to work in finance, fintech, or strategic roles back in India

Two job options I’m considering:

Option 1: Consulting position at a London-based financial services consultancy. Initial assignment involves working with a major British bank on compliance risk and financial stress testing. Responsibilities include business analysis, managing stakeholders, and working with financial modeling tools.

Option 2: Graduate training program at a large British bank focusing on commercial banking. Program includes rotations through areas like lending, small business banking, and client relationship management.

Questions I’m hoping to get advice on:

  • Which experience would be more valuable for future job applications in India?
  • Which role offers better transferability to sectors like fintech, NBFCs, or consulting firms?
  • Would London consulting experience be viewed more favorably than completing a graduate scheme?

Any insights would be really helpful!

2

tbh, I think the grad scheme’s the better route. banks really value those structured programs on your resume, plus you’ll gain good experience in commercial banking that will serve you well in india’s NBFCs. consulting can vary, but solid banking skills are always in demand!

3

Consulting all the way! You’ll develop incredible problem-solving skills and gain exposure to various projects. Indian employers value UK consulting experience highly—it shows your ability to adapt and think strategically, key traits for fintech and finance roles!

4

I’ve been through a similar transition, and I’d go with consulting for your situation. You already have analytics experience, so consulting will give you the skill variety that Indian employers really want right now. You’ll pick up financial modeling, stakeholder management, and risk assessment - all directly useful for India’s growing fintech scene. Sure, grad schemes offer solid training, but with your background, you’ll learn faster in consulting. Plus, consulting shows you can adapt and handle clients, which Indian finance companies love. The project work will also help you build your network way quicker, and that’s huge when you’re planning to move back. Look at how many Indian fintech leaders came from consulting - it’s clearly a good path for what you want to do.