Vault’s Verdict

ZS in the APAC region is a firm for which many insiders are proud to work. As a consulting firm that specializes in the healthcare industry, consultants feel like the work they do makes a difference, and when it comes to the prestige of their firm, they consider ZS beyond repair. A passion for healthcare is an absolute must for any candidate hoping to work for this firm, as the collaborative culture and collegial environment encourage people to approach what they do with enthusiasm. ZS is a firm that invests in its people, providing ample professional development and training opportunities.

If there’s one qualm that people seem to have with this firm, it’s more of an industry-wide issue: work/life balance. While many respondents to our survey praise a low-pressure, fairly even work/life balance, the nature of the industry is such that your workload may change often. Other respondents intimate that work/life balance is wholly dependent on client demands and that staffing needs can often place you on high-demand projects. If you are an adaptable self-starter with an interest in healthcare, though, you will doubtlessly be able to roll with the ebbs and flows.

Firm Culture

• “Focus on the healthcare industry.”
• “Focus on healthcare insights & intensive training in consulting/problem-solving skills.”
• “Friendly culture.”
• “If you desire a steep learning curve, a cooperative working atmosphere, and taking responsibility even when you are new in office, ZS is the right choice.”

Quality of life

• “Best: easy to take time off, the culture of the company is very fun and friendly. Worst: hours may get very long depending on the project; type of project can get repetitive very quickly."
• “Great work/life balance and great salary level.”
• “Very easy to take a vacation, as long as you submit beforehand. Teams try best to accommodate vacations and not bother the member on leave.”
• “Workload is acceptable.”

Career Development

• “Best aspects: office transfer, advanced degree program. Worst aspects: lack of official and useful training, especially for new hires.”
• “Overall, [this] is good, while project diversity in China is limited regarding practice industry and functions.”
• “Great opportunities to learn and to improve.”

Compensation

• “Base is quite attractive compared to most of the other consulting firms.”
• "Worst: Pay in Japan vs. other countries. No free food or company discounts. Best: Casual dress policy.”