I just wanted to guauge everybody's thoughts on when it is a good time to move client side from a leading consulting company. I've been with Accenture for just over two years and am getting a bit frustrated with lack of development within my role and have been thinking about moving client side - reaping the benefits of my strong skill set within a more stable environment, better work/life balance and commensurate pay. Is there an ideal time to do this, is it easy to make a move back into consultancy later down the track and has anybody had a good/bad experience that they want to relate? I've been contacted by a recruiter recently who seems to have a lot of client side opportunities so just considering whether to pursue this any further at present..

Don't you have to actually be at a leading consulting company first, before you can move from it? :) ... seriously, though, gauge from the jobs the recruiter is offering you whether it's the right time yet: are you happy with the roles described? Progression in industry is often slower than in consulting, so would you be happy doing those kinds of jobs for the next 2-3 years? If you would be, then it might well be time to explore that move.

Have done this exact process (Consulting to Client for 3 years back to Consulting) so willing to share my thoughts. Email me at garelj@yahoo.com and I can give you pros and cons. In short well worth it as i can speak intelligently about my experiences and not just "wing it" like I used to.~J

To be honest, a very good friend of mine was 'poached' from an A2 level into a client manager level (package of a C3). This individual had 4 years experience before joining ACN and was therefore too experienced for the role as an A2; so it was a good move.I would say, if they are going to poach you and put you into a specific role, then this could be a good move. If not, you are another hot shot with less to offer than you really believe you have. I am not being a sh!t here, I work for Accenture (C3) too and know it is difficult to translate the experience and expectations you have into the industry model. I believe I am hot stuff; my mate in recruitment says I am a candidate with four years experience and a massive ego.Good luck with whatever you choose.