About
EY Port Jackson Partners is a boutique management consulting firm that provides advice to CEOs, boards and executives to help them set corporate direction, define business strategies and develop their organisations.
Port Jackson Partners was founded in 1991 by two former Directors of McKinsey & Company, Terrey Arcus and Fred Hilmer. After building successful strategy consulting careers in Australia and internationally, Terrey and Fred wanted to refocus on serving clients with less business travel and a better balance of time with their families. Port Jackson Partners was founded on a commitment to delivering exceptional quality work with a focus on strategic insights for CEOs, while recognising the importance of family and life priorities. Whilst we do now serve clients around Australia and overseas, we are proud that these hallmarks continue to shape our firm.
Over nearly three decades, the practice grew into one of Australia’s most well-respected strategy consulting firms so much so that when EY were looking for a top-tier strategy firm PJP was on the top of their list. Since joining EY in June 2020 we have been able to scale up at speed, expand into new sectors, and enjoy being part of a global network while still maintaining our unique culture and ’boutique’ like feel.
There are currently 17 Partners who lead the practice, assisted by a group of highly qualified consultants and an outstanding support team based in Sydney and Melbourne.
Values
Impact
For our clients, our firm and the community
Ideas
Curious and rigorous, valuing ideas on their merits
Diversity
Our strength is in our differences
Humility
Empathetic, quietly confident and always learning
Balance
Supporting the pursuit of a full life and a meaningful career
Connection
Genuine, respectful, caring and authentic
What sets us apart
Home‑Grown Strategy Leadership
Founded by ex‑McKinsey heavyweights, PJP remains a go‑to adviser for ASX boards and government taskforces. Joining offers prestige comparable to MBB with an Aussie heritage twist. Client relationships run decades deep.
High Senior Involvement & Apprenticeship
Project teams are tiny; partners co‑craft models and co‑present to CEOs, giving unmatched mentorship. Analysts often become the only junior in C‑suite workshops. Learning is intense and personalised.
Pure Strategy Focus (Minimal Implementation)
Work centres on corporate direction, market entry and competitiveness studies, not system installs. Analyses stay conceptual, sharpening critical‑thinking muscles. Deal‑related work now appears via Parthenon cross‑staffing but remains strategy‑led.
Great Culture, Top‑Tier Rewards
Collegial vibe, near‑MBB pay and protected weekends yield high retention. Non‑traditional academic backgrounds are welcomed if analytical. Hours average 55–65, spiking only for rare live deals.
