Mark
Q: What has your experience at Strategy& been like so far?
My time at Strategy& has been deeply enriching, both professionally and personally. The learning curve has definitely been steep, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. I’ve had the chance to work on complex challenges with some of the most driven and collaborative people I’ve ever met. What really stands out is the culture of support and mentorship. There’s a strong sense of community here, and that’s made a real difference in my growth.
Q: You recently became a father to a baby boy. Congratulations! What advice would you give to new parents trying to balance family and consulting?
Thank you! The best advice I can offer is to be purposeful with your time and transparent about your priorities. In consulting, it’s possible to create space for your family, especially when you communicate your needs as a parent clearly.
I’ve found that being fully present, whether with my team or at home, helps me navigate both roles more meaningfully. And don’t hesitate to ask for support; people are often more understanding than we expect.
Q: What was your experience like taking parental leave?
It was incredibly valuable. I decided to split my eight-week leave into two parts: the first right after my child was born, which allowed me to be fully present during those early, foundational weeks; and the second a few months later, when my child was a bit older and more interactive. That second stretch gave me the chance to enjoy a different stage of his development and spend quality time with him as his personality started to emerge. It helped us build a strong bond and gave our family time to find a sustainable rhythm.
Q: Was there a particular policy at Strategy& that helped you during this transition?
The parental leave policy was definitely the most beneficial for me. It sent a strong message that fatherhood is a priority and that taking time to be with your family is not only accepted: it’s encouraged. Having that dedicated space made a huge difference in how I transitioned into this new chapter. I came back to work with a renewed sense of clarity and focus, and with a deep appreciation for the flexibility and support I received.
Q: Has fatherhood changed the way you lead or mentor others?
Absolutely. It’s made me more intentional in how I lead and support people. I’ve become more aware that everyone brings their full selves to work; responsibilities, joys, and challenges included. I try to be more empathetic, more present, and more thoughtful about how I use time and give feedback. It’s shifted my mind-set from focusing not only on outcomes but also caring about how people feel along the way.
Q: What’s one piece of advice your father gave you that you hope to pass on to your own child?
My father always encouraged me to play sports, not just for fun, but to learn discipline, consistency, and commitment. He used to say, “If you want to improve, you have to show up and put in the work.” That mindset, earning progress through effort has stuck with me. It’s shaped how I think, how I work, and how I lead. And it’s something I hope to pass on to my child as well.
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