Meet McKinsey’s MBA Class of 2019

Chika Ofili

McKinsey Office: Calgary

Hometown: Calgary, Canada

MBA Program, Concentration: Wharton, Finance and Entrepreneurship Management

Undergraduate School, Major: McMaster University, Electrical and Biomedical Engineering

Focus of current engagement: Strategy and Operations redesign

Why did you choose McKinsey? I chose McKinsey for the people and the opportunities. With McKinsey’s office-driven staffing model, I’m exposed to exciting and meaningful challenges, in different industries and functions. In addition, I get to work with amazing people every day, who are supportive and passionate about developing me professionally.

What did you love about the business school you attended? Wharton was the best decision I have made! I loved getting to know my classmates and professors who are always curious to learn from everyone, support ideas, and share their experiences. I met classmates who have become long term friends and got exposed to new ideas, viewpoints and beliefs – and lots of new types of food.

What lesson or skill did you learn from training at McKinsey and how has it helped in your role? The importance of planning ahead for the day, what we need to accomplish and synthesizing your work as the day goes by. It’s so easy to fall into the process trap of rolling from one meeting to another. But mid-day synthesis has helped me understand what I know and determine the important next steps so I can spend my time more effectively.

Tell us about an “only at McKinsey” moment you’ve had so far. I’m always impressed about how non-hierarchical and truly global the firm is. In all conversations, it is expected that we all feel comfortable to share our ideas, independent of our tenure. It’s also amazing how collaborative the firm members are. On my all projects, I have been able to call partners and senior partners around the world to get expert opinions on problems – and they are always willing to help or suggest the right expert for the problem.

What advice would you give someone interviewing at McKinsey? Show your true self because the McKinsey interview is more than the case. Focus an equal amount of prep on the personal experience interview as you do on the case prep. It is important to think through your stories and articulate your past achievements, and experiences to share with the interviewer.

Who has had the biggest impact on you at McKinsey and how has she/he helped you? McKinsey’s Black Network has been extra supportive both in Canada and the US. The community feels like a real family. I can reach out to anyone and they are willing to find time for me to think through challenges and strategize the next steps. Likewise, I am energized to give back to the community.

My most meaningful achievement (professional or personal) and how it made a difference is…I started a scholarship at my high school in Nigeria. Before that, all scholarships at the school focused on grade achievements. I felt it was equally important to motivate students who exhibit leadership qualities via extracurricular activities. So, I convinced 20+ former classmates to support four annual scholarships and we’re now in the 5th year. I’m always excited to learn about the annual nominees’ achievements – they are always inspiring! It was also the first time an alumni class had given back to school, which motivated other classes to support the school.

A fun fact about me is…I love traveling and trying new foods.

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