Savanna Brombacher on her move into consulting with Firm C

With the ambition to transition into the world of consulting, Savanna Brombacher relocated from South Africa to the Netherlands at the start of 2024 and joined Firm C. Consultancy.org spoke with Savanna about life since her arrival at the boutique management consultancy firm.

Originally from Johannesburg, Savanna Brombacher earned degrees in Actuarial and Financial Engineering Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics at the University of Pretoria. Following her studies, an early career in data science saw her hold roles in financial services.

But with a determination to broaden her horizons, boost her skills, and get a broader overview of the market, Savanna soon began to look for opportunities further afield.

“I’ve always aspired to join a consulting firm for the opportunity to work on diverse projects, develop new skills, and continuously challenge myself,” she recalls. “Firm C stood out to me because of its focus on helping companies in the finance, risk, and data sectors. With a passion for finance and data, I was eager to delve into the risk domain as well.”

Consulting is often seen by graduates as a top opportunity to learn on the job. The sector has a reputation for providing young professionals a steep learning curve, offering them the opportunity to engage with clients on a diverse range of projects. This gives young professionals a chance to engage with a wide range of clients and get to grips with the leading trends in their field, while also feeling they are involved in meaningful and rewarding work.

In early 2024, this saw Savanna relocate to the northern hemisphere, taking up her new role at Firm C. Based out of Utrecht, Firm C specialises in helping clients in the financial services sector with change, finance, risk, and transformation.

“The onboarding process at the company was exceptional. I was greeted by friendly and supportive colleagues who helped me set up my laptop, navigate the company's systems, and get started on my first assignment. It was the most seamless onboarding experience I've ever had.”

Firm C has already helped Savanna build new skills for a long career in consulting. But the team have also helped her on a personal level, such as adapting to life in a new country and in a new home.

Not that Savanna was in any doubt that she would enjoy life in the Netherlands. “I've always dreamed of living abroad, and have family in the Netherlands, which also helps. While I do miss the sunny weather of South Africa, the Netherlands offers so much more – amazing restaurants, vibrant festivals, beautiful architecture, and friendly people. I can't wait to explore the rest of the cities within the Netherlands.”