International Relations & Public Policy Analyst

About the Company

McKinsey & Company is a global management consulting firm that advises leading businesses, governments, non-governmental organizations, and not-for-profits on their most critical issues and opportunities. Our mission is to help our clients make lasting improvements to their performance and realize their most important goals. With consultants in more than 130 cities and 65 countries, we bring unparalleled expertise and diverse perspectives to our clients, fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth.

Job Description

As an International Relations & Public Policy Analyst at McKinsey & Company in Chicago, you will play a crucial role in advising our clients, including governments, non-profits, and multinational corporations, on complex geopolitical landscapes and public policy challenges. You will conduct in-depth research and analysis, develop strategic insights, and contribute to impactful recommendations that shape our clients’ strategies in the global arena. This role demands a keen analytical mind, a passion for international affairs, and the ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable business strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive research and analysis on international political, economic, and social developments.
• Assess the impact of public policy, regulatory changes, and geopolitical events on client strategies and operations.
• Develop strategic recommendations for clients navigating complex global landscapes and cross-border issues.
• Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and briefings for senior leadership and client executives.
• Support engagement teams in developing and delivering client solutions related to government affairs, foreign policy, and international development.
• Contribute to firm-wide knowledge initiatives and thought leadership on geopolitical risk, public sector trends, and international relations.
• Build and maintain relationships with relevant stakeholders in government, academia, think tanks, and international organizations.
• Monitor global events and provide timely updates and analysis to internal teams and clients.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, suitable for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Demonstrated interest in international affairs, geopolitics, and public policy.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities and intellectual curiosity.
• Fluency in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, or a related field.
• Prior experience (e.g., internships, fellowships, full-time roles) in government, international organizations, think tanks, public policy consulting, or a related field.
• Proficiency in a second language (e.g., Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic, German).
• Strong understanding of global economic and political systems, international law, and diplomatic protocols.
• Experience with data analysis tools and methodologies relevant to policy research.

Perks & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and parental leave.
• 401(k) retirement plan with competitive company match.
• Extensive professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Mentorship programs and personalized career coaching.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance programs.
• Opportunities for global mobility and international assignments.
• Flexible work arrangements and a supportive work-life balance culture.

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