I've seen a number of PA-related question go unanswered over recent weeks - where have all the contributors from PA gone? Cheggers in particular used to be a great advertisemnt for the Company but even his contributions seem to have gone?

Cheggers is definitely still about - he must be busy! As some one who has just joined PA, I cannot recommend it highyly enough as a place to work.

What dept are you in and are you an analyst?

I'm in Business Op & Performance, and I'm a consultant.

How are you finding it? what are the advantages and disadvantages of the firm?

As someone who has come in from industry, I can't compare it to other consultancies. My experience thus far has been that the people and culture are great, and a drawback may be the level of public sector work PA carry out, and the fact that you can't claim for alcohol on expenses, though that's probably a good thing!

All the PA'ers are still about, but we really are flat out right now on client focussed work. Its always good to hear that new joiners are enjoying it, esp in my own practice of BOP. I'd share the concerns mentioned by New PAer on the public sector / private sector balance, but I think we are making real strides in the private sector now, and getting some real meaty clients on our books. We are starting to land some real punches on the big Systems Integrators and Big 4 firms ! Long may it continue !!!

Glad you're enjoying it New PAer, what is the benefits package like at PA i.e. outside of salary? Also what training/personal development 'stuff' have you received so far or are lined up for in the near future? Cheers GB

In terms of benefits, it's the usual bag - car allowance, health plan etc I think the opportunity to own shares in the firm after your first year is probably one of the best parts of the package. As for training, PA have a clear training schedule for all grades. I've only attended one so far, but I have another 3 coming up over the next couple of months, so it is taken very seriously.

PA's corporate policy on training is very clear. Staff are expected to do a MINIMUM of 7 days training per annum, irrespective of grade. More training is obviously available to new joiners. If you don't engage in 7 days training, your partner and practice will be hit, so it is in their interest to ensure that consultant skills are kept up to date through regular training. Each partner is also obligated to deliver a certain number of days training as well. PA's training and education policy is a key part of the reason why our staff attrition rates are amongst the lowest in the business.

Thanks for the responses guys it all sounds VERY positive, I have heard great things about the PA training, I take it it's a mix of external and internal courses etc.?What would be the ballpark (usual caveats) salary & benefits for someone joining as a PC (mid-range)? Thanks in advance GB.p.s. nice to have you back Cheggers (the one man PA PR machine)