Richard Brackstone, MCA Board Member and Managing Partner at Moorhouse Consulting reflects on what the chartered programme means to him, and why he believes other leaders should embrace it.
Achieving Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC) status has been an important journey for me, both professionally and personally. As the consultancy sector evolves, maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethics is more critical than ever. This accreditation isn’t just a badge of honour; it’s a testament to our commitment as an industry to excellence and continuous improvement. Here’s how the ChMC designation has influenced me and our business, and why I believe it’s key for other leaders to embrace it.
Navigating disruptive change and change, in general, is at the core of what we do in consultancy. The process of becoming a ChMC allowed me to consolidate over 25 years of experience and roles across various organisations and a diverse range of clients and industries. This journey has supported me in bridging the gap between the theoretical aspects of consultancy, learned through training and experience, and their practical application. Each client is unique, and the Chartered process has helped bring a unified approach to leadership, focusing not only on operational aspects but also on ethical and behavioural standards.
Our Senior Leadership Team at Moorhouse, consisting of ten partners, has either achieved Chartered status or is on the path to attaining it. This common professional foundation enhances interactions, both internally and with our clients, elevating the recognition and professionalism of our industry. It unites us under a shared framework, reflecting in our role modelling within our business and demonstrating to our clients that we are committed to the highest standards.
When advising C-suites, the ChMC designation enhances our ability to influence strategic decision-making. The growing presence of Chartered professionals within our business is a positive indicator for both our organisation and our clients. We frequently reference our Chartered status in tender responses, using it as a marker of professional understanding and position. This recognition is particularly important for smaller consultancies as it creates a level playing field with larger firms, showcasing our commitment to excellence and high professional standards.
The ChMC designation also impacts our credibility with board directors and executives. While we strive to maintain strong relationships with the C-suite, having the ChMC designation provides further credibility. It underscores the seriousness with which we uphold industry standards, driving home the message that we are professionals committed to ethical behaviour and high-quality service.
At Moorhouse, Chartered status serves as a role model for our business, reflecting our commitment to professionalism and ethical standards. This dual purpose—enhancing market presence and internal leadership— also encourages others within our organisation to pursue the ChMC accreditation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and high standards.
Describing what consultants do can sometimes be challenging, especially in informal settings. ChMC provides a clear reference point, aligning our industry with other highly regarded professions like accounting, finance, and medicine. It offers a framework that supports continuous learning, operational excellence, and theoretical development, ensuring we stay ahead of industry changes and technological advancements.
Looking ahead, the ChMC accreditation will continue to play an important role in my development and that of our consultants in Moorhouse. Having the benefit of access to a network of Chartered professionals fosters ongoing education, cultivates connections, and encourages the exchange of best practices, keeping us abreast of the latest industry advancements.
In summary, adopting the Chartered Management Consultant accreditation has brought numerous benefits to our business and the consulting industry as a whole. It enhances our credibility, fosters a culture of continuous improvement, and ensures we maintain the highest professional standards.
I encourage other leaders in the consultancy sector to pursue this accreditation for themselves and their teams, as it will undoubtedly lead to a more respected and effective industry. The journey to becoming Chartered is challenging but immensely rewarding, providing a solid foundation for future success and growth.
Find out more about the Chartered Management Consultant Award.