Sharma Strategy Group: Careers, Culture, Salary, and Interviews

Key Insights:

• Sharma Strategy Group is a boutique consulting firm offering corporate strategy, market entry, operational improvement, and digital transformation services.
• Founded in 2008 by Vishal Sharma, the firm has grown while maintaining a collaborative and client-focused boutique consulting model.
• The Sharma Strategy Group career path moves from Associate to Partner, with mentorship and early client exposure shaping professional growth.
• Internships at Sharma Strategy Group provide hands-on consulting experience, mentorship, and a pathway to full-time careers.
• Consultants earn competitive salaries, with Associates starting at $72,000 and Managers earning up to $150,000.

Sharma Strategy Group is a boutique consulting firm based in Dallas, Texas, known for delivering tailored strategic solutions across industries. The firm has built a reputation for innovation, collaboration, and client-centered results, making it an attractive destination for aspiring consultants.

In this article, we will explore Sharma Strategy Group’s history, careers, culture, salaries, interviews, and more to help you decide if it is the right consulting firm for you.

What does Sharma Strategy Group do as a consulting firm?

Sharma Strategy Group is a boutique consulting firm that provides strategic advisory services focused on corporate strategy, operational improvement, market entry, and digital transformation. The firm is known for delivering data-driven solutions tailored to client needs, with a strong emphasis on measurable results and sustainable growth.

Sharma Strategy Group’s project work typically includes:

• Growth strategy: Helping companies identify new opportunities for expansion
• Market entry: Supporting clients in entering new markets with research and risk analysis
• Operational improvement: Streamlining processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs
• Digital transformation: Leveraging technology to modernize business operations

The firm’s evidence-based advisory approach combines in-depth industry knowledge with actionable insights. Clients range from startups to Fortune 500 companies, with projects spanning technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, and manufacturing.

For candidates, this means exposure to diverse industries, early responsibility on projects, and opportunities to work directly with senior leadership. By focusing on smaller, agile teams, Sharma Strategy Group ensures consultants gain practical, hands-on experience that builds strong foundations for a long-term consulting career.

Who founded Sharma Strategy Group and what is its history?

Sharma Strategy Group was founded in 2008 by Vishal Sharma, who continues to serve as the firm’s Managing Principal. The firm’s history reflects its mission to combine the expertise of large consulting firms with the client-focused approach of a boutique consulting firm.

From its early days, Sharma Strategy Group positioned itself as an evidence-based advisory partner. Vishal Sharma leveraged his consulting background and professional network to build long-term client relationships. The firm initially worked with small to mid-sized businesses seeking transformation strategies.

Over time, Sharma Strategy Group expanded its practice areas to include:

• Corporate strategy and growth planning
• Market entry support for U.S. and international clients
• Operational improvement and process redesign
• Digital transformation projects

Despite its growth, the firm has retained its boutique culture, emphasizing collaboration, personalized mentorship, and measurable results. Today, it serves clients across industries such as healthcare, technology, consumer goods, financial services, and manufacturing.

What industries and practice areas does Sharma Strategy Group cover?

Sharma Strategy Group focuses on practice areas including corporate strategy, operational improvement, market entry, and digital transformation. The firm works across industries such as technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, and manufacturing, combining strategic insights with industry-specific expertise to deliver measurable results.

In practice areas, consultants gain exposure to:

• Corporate strategy: Long-term planning, competitive positioning, and growth initiatives
• Operational improvement: Redesigning processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs
• Market entry: Helping businesses assess risks and opportunities in new regions or sectors
• Digital transformation: Supporting technology adoption and modernization efforts

Industry coverage includes:

• Technology: Digital solutions, IT modernization, and innovation strategies
• Healthcare: Navigating regulatory requirements and improving patient outcomes
• Financial services: Risk management, compliance, and operational efficiency
• Consumer goods: Brand positioning, product launches, and supply chain strategy
• Manufacturing: Process optimization and productivity enhancements

This mix of industries and practice areas allows Sharma Strategy Group consultants to build a versatile skill set. For candidates, it means diverse project exposure and the ability to develop expertise that translates into long-term career opportunities across consulting and beyond.

What is the Sharma Strategy Group career path like?

The Sharma Strategy Group career path progresses from entry-level Associate to Associate Consultant, Consultant, Manager, and ultimately Partner. The firm offers a structured promotion process supported by mentorship, client exposure, and professional development opportunities, allowing consultants to gain responsibility and leadership experience at each stage.

Typical career progression includes:

• Associate: Entry-level role focused on research, analysis, and supporting project delivery
• Associate Consultant: Increased client interaction and contribution to recommendations
• Consultant: Leading workstreams, managing junior team members, and presenting to clients
• Manager: Overseeing entire projects, mentoring Associates and Consultants, and driving client relationships
• Partner: Setting strategic direction, building client portfolios, and shaping the firm’s growth

At each level, consultants receive coaching from senior leaders and opportunities to work across multiple industries. Unlike larger firms where new hires may be siloed, Sharma Strategy Group emphasizes early responsibility and exposure to senior leadership. This creates an accelerated environment for learning and skill-building.

For aspiring consultants, this career path provides clarity, steady advancement, and diverse experience that strengthens both consulting expertise and long-term career options.

Does Sharma Strategy Group offer internships and early career opportunities?

Yes, Sharma Strategy Group offers internships that provide hands-on consulting experience, allowing early career professionals to work directly on client projects. Interns participate in research, analysis, and presentations, while receiving mentorship and training that prepare them for potential full-time consulting roles at the firm.

Key aspects of the internship program include:

• Real project work: Interns contribute to live client engagements instead of simulations
• Mentorship: Guidance from senior consultants to develop problem-solving and communication skills
• Professional development: Skills workshops and feedback sessions to accelerate growth
• Networking opportunities: Access to firm events and direct interaction with leadership

For students and recent graduates, the program provides valuable exposure to strategy consulting while building technical, analytical, and client-facing skills. Strong performers often receive offers to join the firm full-time, making this internship a pathway into the consulting career track.

What is the culture like at Sharma Strategy Group?

The Sharma Strategy Group culture is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and supportive, with a focus on professional growth and work-life balance. Employees describe the firm as open to new ideas, inclusive, and structured around small teams that encourage responsibility and impact early in one’s consulting career.

Key cultural aspects include:

• Collaboration: Agile teams that work closely with clients and leadership
• Entrepreneurial spirit: Opportunities to innovate and shape project outcomes
• Diversity: Women hold over half of leadership positions, and the team represents multiple countries and cities
• Mentorship: Strong support from senior leaders with accessible guidance
• Work-life balance: A culture that values sustainable workloads alongside professional growth

For consultants, this means gaining exposure to diverse perspectives and leadership styles while contributing meaningfully to client success. The emphasis on inclusion ensures that different voices are heard, creating an environment where innovation and collaboration drive results.

How much do consultants and managers earn at Sharma Strategy Group?

The Sharma Strategy Group salary ranges from around $72,000 annually for Associates to $89,000 for Associate Consultants, with Managers earning between $120,000 and $150,000. These salaries are competitive within boutique consulting firms, though slightly below the average pay at McKinsey, BCG, and Bain.

Salary breakdown by role:

• Associate: Approximately $72,000 base salary
• Associate Consultant: Around $89,000 base salary
• Consultant: Typically ranges from $95,000 to $110,000 depending on experience
• Manager: Estimated $120,000 to $150,000 base salary

While base salaries may be lower than at the largest firms, Sharma Strategy Group balances this with close client exposure, mentorship, and a collaborative culture. For many consultants, the opportunity for faster professional development offsets the difference in compensation.

What is the Sharma Strategy Group interview process?

The Sharma Strategy Group interview process typically spans three to four weeks and emphasizes case interviews, with behavioral questions included toward the end of each round. Candidates should prepare for industry-focused case problems and demonstrate structured problem-solving, analytical ability, and communication skills.

Interview process highlights:

• Timeline: Usually three to four weeks from application to final decision
• Format: Multiple rounds of case interviews with senior consultants and managers
• Case focus: Heavy emphasis on strategy, market entry, and operational improvement cases
• Behavioral fit: Brief but important questions assessing motivation, collaboration, and cultural alignment
• Preparation tips: Review industry trends, practice case frameworks, and refine mental math skills

Applicants often report that nearly all interview rounds center on case interviews, making technical and analytical preparation essential. Success depends not only on solving the case accurately but also on demonstrating clear reasoning, adaptability, and client-ready communication.

What are the exit opportunities for Sharma Strategy Group consultants?

Sharma Strategy Group consultants often transition into roles in corporate strategy, private equity, and leadership positions at startups or Fortune 500 companies. The firm’s focus on diverse industries and hands-on project experience helps professionals build transferable skills that are highly valued beyond consulting.

Common exit opportunities include:

• Corporate strategy: Internal strategy roles at major corporations
• Private equity: Supporting portfolio companies and investment analysis
• Startups: Taking on leadership or operations roles in early-stage ventures
• Fortune 500 companies: Moving into management or specialized strategy positions
• Further education: Some alumni pursue MBAs or advanced degrees before re-entering consulting or industry

Because Sharma Strategy Group emphasizes early client exposure, consultants develop leadership, communication, and analytical skills that make them attractive hires across industries. These exit paths provide long-term career flexibility for professionals seeking opportunities beyond consulting.

Is Sharma Strategy Group a good consulting firm to join?

Sharma Strategy Group is a good consulting firm to join if you value close mentorship, diverse project exposure, and a collaborative culture. While salaries may be slightly lower than at larger firms, the firm offers accelerated learning, strong exit opportunities, and an inclusive environment that supports professional growth.

Reasons candidates may find it appealing:

• Hands-on experience: Small teams mean early client exposure and responsibility
• Mentorship: Direct access to senior leaders and personalized guidance
• Culture: Entrepreneurial, collaborative, and inclusive environment
• Career growth: Clear advancement path with opportunities across industries
• Exit potential: Strong pathways into corporate strategy, private equity, and Fortune 500 leadership

For aspiring consultants, Sharma Strategy Group provides a balanced career experience that combines skill-building, mentorship, and real client impact. It may not match the compensation of McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, but it delivers long-term value for professionals seeking growth and flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the top 3 strategy consulting firms?
A: The top 3 strategy consulting firms are McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company. These “MBB” firms are considered industry leaders and often serve as benchmarks when evaluating boutique consulting firms like Sharma Strategy Group.

Q: What are the Big 4 strategy firms?
A: The Big 4 strategy firms are Deloitte, PwC (Strategy&), EY-Parthenon, and KPMG. While global in scale, many candidates also explore boutique consulting firms such as Sharma Strategy Group for more personalized strategic advisory services.

Q: What degree do you need for strategy consulting?
A: Most strategy consulting roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, engineering, or a related field. Firms like Sharma Strategy Group also value advanced degrees (MBA, master’s) and strong problem-solving skills.

Q: Do strategy consultants make good money?
A: Yes, strategy consultants make good money, with competitive salaries compared to other professional careers. For example, Sharma Strategy Group salary packages are attractive at both associate and manager levels within the boutique consulting market.

Q: Is 40 too late to start a career?
A: No, 40 is not too late to start a consulting career. Many boutique firms, including Sharma Strategy Group, value diverse experience and welcome professionals transitioning into strategy consulting for a second career path.