A Senior Director’s Insights on Why Building Cultural Intelligence and Being Hands-on Is Crucial for Success in Consulting

Jens Adams is a Senior Director in Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Financial and Operational Restructuring practice in Munich, Germany. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt.

In this Q&A, Jens discusses the key factors that influenced his decision to return to A&M, the skills he has gained and how his background in corporate restructuring has shaped his approach to challenges. He also shares insights on how travel has enhanced his cultural intelligence, his strategy for building relationships, and Munich's office culture. He discusses the impact of sports on his growth, the challenges of being a single dad in consulting and how being an identical twin influenced his identity.

Why Accountability Is Key for Effective Teamwork

What key factors, including aspects of A&M's culture or opportunities, influenced your decision to return to the firm in June 2022?

At A&M, our approach is grounded in a hands-on mentality and a proactive attitude toward achieving results. We believe in taking full responsibility for our work beyond traditional consulting roles. For instance, during my time at a competitor, we focused on coaching Chief Restructuring Officers (CROs). At A&M, however, we immerse ourselves fully in the role of the CRO, actively driving the restructuring process. This hands-on approach allows us to deliver comprehensive solutions that advise and execute effectively, ensuring tangible outcomes for our clients.

Reflecting on your time at A&M, which skills have you gained, and how have they fueled your success?

I have gained essential skills in handling complex situations and developed a strong belief in the effectiveness of A&M’s approach. In addition, my expertise lies in financial analysis and turning operational plans into measurable results. This combination helps me to effectively manage restructuring challenges by aligning financial insights with practical strategies to achieve positive and lasting outcomes.

How has your extensive corporate restructuring and performance improvement background influenced your approach to addressing challenges in different industries?

My experience in corporate restructuring and performance improvement has influenced how I approach challenges in various industries. It's taught me the importance of adapting strategies to fit each industry's unique characteristics, ensuring our solutions are practical and aligned with organizational goals. Handling crises has also been a critical aspect where I've learned to navigate uncertainties with a focus on maintaining stability and fostering resilience. These skills enable me to achieve impactful results and facilitate positive changes in complex business environments.

How has your extensive travel experience across diverse regions like Vietnam, Argentina, Malaysia and South Africa enhanced your cultural intelligence and influenced your approach to global business environments?

I have always been interested in different countries and cultures. In today's global business environment, it's no longer enough to simply be aware of different cultures. We need to be able to adapt and operate across a variety of cultural contexts, and that requires a deep understanding of and respect for the values, beliefs and customs that shape those cultures. Traveling and experiencing other cultures has helped me to improve my cultural intelligence. This helps me today to build strong relationships and support business on a global scale.

Essential Tips for Nurturing Relationships and Rejoining a Former Employer

Share your strategy for building and maintaining relationships with colleagues and clients. How do these connections bolster your effectiveness in your current role?

I wouldn't call it a strategy. I had the opportunity to work with many colleagues from all over Europe. In most cases, we were staffed on very intense projects and inevitably got to know each other well. With clients, it's almost the same. Due to our hands-on mentality, the client very often becomes a quasi-colleague. You spend more time with your colleagues than with your own family or friends, so for me, it's natural to send a message or a birthday greeting now and then.

Based on your journey, what advice would you offer to professionals contemplating a return to A&M or rejoining a former employer?

Everyone should ask themselves whether they see their future in consulting. If they do, I am convinced there are few better opportunities than A&M. Returning to A&M was easy for me as I felt more than welcome when I rejoined. In fact, it felt like I had always stayed in the company.

Describe the office culture in Munich from your perspective.

We recently moved to a new office, which has been great for bringing people back together. While the effects of COVID-19 linger, with many having well-equipped home offices they've grown accustomed to, I see this as an opportunity to revitalize the office culture. It's imperative now, as many new employees have yet to fully experience the vibrant and collaborative environment we are known for.

Balancing Personal and Professional Life

How has participating in sports shaped your professional approach and contributed to your personal growth?

Sport has always been important to me. It has helped me develop essential qualities like discipline, perseverance, teamwork and leadership. Over time, teamwork has become a decisive factor in our professional environment. For me, the team’s success is always more important than personal success. Success is always a team effort and can only be achieved together.

How do you navigate the challenges of being a single dad while working in the consulting industry?

Balancing the roles of a single dad and a consultant is undoubtedly challenging, but by being organized, proactive and communicative, I’ve successfully navigated these challenges. Being transparent about my situation has been crucial in fostering understanding and support from my team and clients.

How has being an identical twin influenced your identity and life experiences?

Being an identical twin has profoundly shaped my identity and life experiences, fostering a deep sense of empathy, understanding and strong interpersonal skills. Growing up with a twin taught me the importance of individuality and healthy competition. The strong bond we share has underscored the value of relationships while also emphasizing the need for personal growth and independence. These experiences have enriched my life and equipped me with valuable skills for both personal and professional development.