Anthony Gray

During my Law degree I entered into a summer clerkship program with a major corporate law firm, where it became clear that a career in the Law wasn't for me. With an interest in business I thought management consulting would be a great way to get a good grounding in business, whilst also getting a lot of exposure to different industries and companies. Of all the firms that I interviewed with, I ultimately chose PJPL for a number of reasons, including the exceptional people who I met during the interview process, and the interesting client work PJPL does across a wide range of industries. The low-leverage model of PJPL was also a key differentiating factor to what other firms could offer.

Teamwork is deeply embedded in the culture

PJPL is very people oriented. This means that a high value is placed on teamwork as forming a key part of the work we do. This definitely suited me as not only do I enjoy being in a team environment, but I find this to be a much more engaging and productive way to work. There is also a fantastic sense of openness at PJPL, which is important as it enables a good flow of ideas around the office and facilitates strategic thinking.

Leadership is fostered early

On my very first project, I was surprised to be asked to present my analysis directly to the senior executives of our client (the head of strategy and the COO of a leading Australian energy company). Whilst this initially seemed like a daunting task, I was provided sufficient support for this to be a great learning experience.

Since then I have been given further opportunities to singlehandedly lead specific workstreams within projects, such as designing an operational reporting framework, and developing a synergies model for an international industrials M&A deal which formed a key component of the logic for completing the deal.

Work satisfaction

The matters we work on are typically issues that have wider significance and a broad public impact.  Some personal examples include advising on a large transnational acquisition project, helping formulate responses to carbon policies, developing retail strategies for some of Australia's biggest retailers, and shaping major investment decisions for some of Australia's largest companies; and it is very satisfying to see the work you have been doing getting a positive response in the public domain.

Much more than a small cog…

I previously worked in a large law firm, and didn't enjoy feeling like a small cog in a very large and impersonal machine. At PJPL the reverse is true. Being a smaller firm, there is a very collegial and open culture and each individual can, and is expected to have a significant impact. This was very important to me in choosing to come and work here. Most importantly, people at PJPL just enjoy what they do and enjoy the company of each other, which not only makes work enjoyable but also extends to outside the office - with many great social activities planned throughout each year.

Career highlights