TO: Rajossie
It's really nice you brought this topic mention your interest in Hong Kong and Consultancy/ Banking. I found it very informative.
As I'm very new to Hong Kong and just arrived from UK after completing my MBA, I don't have any definite answer or information regarding your concern. However, as far as my effort on finding job here in HK is concerned, I have already started learning Mandarin while applying for jobs.
With regards to Management Consulting, I share exactly the same situation like yours. Although I have an MBA from UK, I am still not finding welcoming into this industry in Hong Kong. I checked with McK, Bain, and few others and realised that they want you to be familiar with the regional language which is obviously Mandarin.
You could try out to other countries where English is considered as main language for example Singapore (as COOLGIRL did suggest you before) or try back in UK itself. Important thing is to remember is that Most of the Management Consulting firms have their application closing date during the month of Sep, Oct, Nov, and Dec for the following year intake.
If you are serious about Hong Kong then I think not only I but you as well have some time (few months) to seriously learn Mandarin and apply for an MC Associate role. I am emphasizing on Mandarin than Cantonese is because majority of consulting firms deal with businesses based in Mainland China. You'll find 7 out of 10 job adverts asking for mandatory Mandarin and English language and the remaining Cantonese and English (some with all three). You don't need language and will get job easily ONLY and OF COURSE you have strong contacts on decision making level of some business. HR is irrespective in that regards.
TO COOLGIRL
Hi...
It would be really nice if you could advice me on Management Consultant recruitment process, your formal / informal interviews, sort of tasks you were assigned on after getting the position, etc.
Many Thanks..
Neil