As businesses undergo rapid digital transformation, the role of an IT strategy consultant has become more essential than ever. Organizations of all sizes are investing in smarter IT infrastructures, automation tools, and digital onboarding systems and they’re turning to IT strategy consultants for guidance.
If you’re curious about this growing field or want to explore a career in tech consulting, this guide breaks down what an IT strategy consultant does and how to become one.
What Is IT Strategy Consulting?
IT strategy consulting involves aligning a company’s technology decisions with its business objectives. While traditional IT consultants may focus on systems implementation or support, IT strategy consultants go further. They shape how technology can create competitive advantages, streamline workflows, and drive revenue.
For example, while an IT consultant might deploy a cloud solution, an IT strategy consultant would evaluate whether a multi-cloud approach aligns better with the company’s long-term growth and risk strategy.
What Does an IT Strategy Consultant Do?
IT strategy consultants work at the intersection of technology and business. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Assessing current IT infrastructure and capabilities
- Recommending and designing IT roadmaps
- Guiding digital transformation efforts
- Advising on cybersecurity, compliance (e.g., HIPAA, SOC 2), and risk management
- Helping implement automation (e.g., RPA) and AI tools
- Supporting change management during tech rollouts
They often lead large-scale projects such as migrating to the cloud, integrating chatbot platforms for customer service, or streamlining digital onboarding using document management systems.
Who Hires IT Strategy Consultants?
- Enterprises looking to scale their tech operations or improve data flow
- Government agencies needing compliance consulting (HIPAA, GDPR)
- Startups planning to build tech infrastructure from the ground up
- Healthcare providers modernizing patient portals or internal records
With data security and process automation taking center stage, demand continues to grow across industries.
Top Skills Required in 2025
If you’re planning to become an IT strategy consultant, here are essential skills to develop:
- Tech fluency in areas like cloud infrastructure, CMS platforms, cybersecurity, and automation tools
- Strategic thinking to connect IT capabilities with business needs
- Project management using agile or hybrid methodologies
- Analytical ability to evaluate risks, costs, and ROI
- Soft skills including stakeholder communication and change leadership
Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, PMP, or CompTIA Security+ are highly valued.
How to Become an IT Strategy Consultant
1. Get the right education: A degree in Computer Science, IT, Business, or Engineering is often the starting point. Many consultants go on to earn MBAs or specialized tech certifications.
2. Gain experience: Most IT strategy consultants have backgrounds in systems analysis, IT support, or business analysis. Start in roles where you can participate in cross-functional tech projects.
3. Build your portfolio: Work on digital transformation or automation initiatives. Document the challenges and your role in overcoming them.
4. Learn core platforms and tools: Familiarize yourself with CMS platforms, RPA software (like UiPath), workflow tools (like Jira or Monday.com), and cybersecurity protocols.
5. Join a consulting firm or go freelance: Once you have the experience, consider joining top firms or start your own consultancy serving SMBs or niche industries.
Top IT Strategy Consulting Firms in the World
These firms are known for leading large-scale IT strategy projects:
- Accenture – digital transformation and cloud advisory
- Deloitte – automation, analytics, and security consulting
- McKinsey & Company – enterprise-wide digital strategy
- Boston Consulting Group (BCG) – IT governance and technology innovation
- EY (Ernst & Young) – risk-focused IT strategy and compliance
Emerging Trends to Watch
- AI-powered IT advisory: Consultants are using AI tools to run scenario simulations and automate assessments.
- RPA and hyperautomation: Businesses are seeking to automate manual tasks across HR, finance, and customer service.
- Chatbot integration: AI chatbots are now part of both internal knowledge systems and external customer support.
- CMS-based optimization: CMS platforms are being used not just for content, but also for onboarding, workflow, and document control.
- Remote-friendly tools: Cloud-based platforms are key to managing decentralized teams and projects.
Conclusion
IT strategy consultants are more than tech experts. They are business enablers. By helping organizations choose and implement the right technologies, they drive operational excellence and digital growth.
If you’re thinking of entering the field, focus on building a strong foundation in both business strategy and technology. With the rise of automation, AI, and secure digital platforms, the opportunities for IT strategy consultants have never been more exciting.