Table Of ContentTable of Contents
Title Page
Introduction
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
GOVERNMENT AND NONPROFIT STAKEHOLDER
ANALYSIS
CULTURAL AWARENESS
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Interview Begins Before You Enter the
Building
The Public Sector Case Interview
FRAMEWORKS
REVIEW CASES
Strategy & Operations
Human Capital Cases
Information Technology Cases
Partner Cases
Conclusion:
About the Authors
CASE IN POINT: GOVERNMENT AND NONPROFIT
Case Interview and Strategic
Preparation
for Consulting Interviews in the Public
Sector
Marc Cosentino and Evan Piekara
Copyright ©2019 Burgee Press
::: All Rights Reserved :::
CASE IN POINT: GOVERNMENT AND NONPROFIT
Case Interview and Strategic Preparation
for Consulting Interviews in the Public Sector
Marc Cosentino and Evan Piekara
Copyright ©2019 Burgee Press
P.O. Box 60137 Santa Barbara CA 93160
All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, except brief
excerpts for the purpose of review, without written permission of the
publisher. As with all case questions, we assume facts not in
evidence, as well as generous assumptions. Familiar companies for
cases may be used as examples because of the power of their
brands and their familiarity to the general public. Information
concerning the actual companies used as examples may not be
accurate. This information was based on research but should not be
used as reliable up-to-date data.
MBA
Analytica
Published by Burgee Press, Santa Barbara, California
ISBN-13: 978-0-9863707-5-5
A portion of the proceeds from sales of this book is donated to small
nonprofits and the organizations that support them.
PRAISE FOR CASE IN POINT:
GOVERNMENT AND NONPROFIT
That common elements and significant distinctions exist among
businesses, governments, and nonprofits is obvious. Less obvious,
but immensely more helpful, is understanding which is which, why,
and how they affect organizational progress. Cosentino and
Piekara’s concise insights across a broad range of topics – including
context, role, expectations, issues, drivers, analytical and decision
frameworks, stakeholders, and processes – hit each nail on the
head. CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit distills much of
what I’ve learned the hard way in the public sector, as both a
government official and nonprofit executive dealing with corporate
leaders. It’s a great contribution and a terrific tool.
~ Thomas Tighe, CEO, Direct Relief
This book is a survival toolkit for anyone looking to master and excel
in public sector and nonprofit work, whether they’re a consultant, a
director, or someone learning how to manage up for the first time.
Cosentino and Piekara smartly communicate that the first order of
business isn’t about problem solving, but ensuring that you have the
right tools and frameworks you’d need to tackle any obstacle or work
request that comes your way.
~ Phim Her, Marketing Solutions Manager, The Washington Post
Marc Cosentino and Evan Piekara have filled an important void with
their new book, CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit. It is
indispensable for anyone seeking a career in the public and nonprofit
sectors.
~ Lee Higdon, Former President of Connecticut College
This book should be ‘THE guide’ for both new and experienced
consultants in the public and nonprofit sector wanting to make an
impact. Evan and Marc have methodically laid out insights,
examples, frameworks, and practical methods to help understand
and navigate the public and nonprofit environment, identify the
different players, and achieve successful results in this industry.
~ Kanchani Algama, Senior Associate, Toffler Associates
Marc and Evan have interwoven practical techniques and methods
to assist an entry level consultant to the most seasoned level
professional working in a government or nonprofit setting. This will
be a recommended read for colleagues and mentees alike.
~ Ricci Mulligan, Principle Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of
Information and Technology, Veterans Affairs (Retired)
It is great to see Marc Cosentino and Evan Piekara collaborate on a
case interview approach to government and nonprofit cases. Prior to
this book, it was hard to find information on how to best prepare for
these types of case interviews. Cosentino and Piekara form a
dynamic duo interweaving practical experience working with clients,
as well as recruiters, and solving complex government and nonprofit
challenges. CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit is a must
for anyone considering this profession!
~ Lawrence Verbiest, Director, Georgetown MBA Career Center
The industry has been waiting for a book like CASE IN POINT:
Government and Nonprofit. As someone with over 40 years of
government, nonprofit, and consulting experience, I’ve found that
consultants who internalize these principles are better able to take a
holistic approach to address the complex challenges that executives
face in the industry.
~ Dave Brant, Executive Director, National Law Enforcement Museum,
former Managing Director BDO Public Sector,
former Director Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)
CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit provides much-needed,
easy-to-read, highly practical and informative approaches to
navigating the case interview for job-matching for recruiters,
consultants, and clients alike. Marc and Evan are subject matter
experts, practitioners who expertly describe pathways, fundamental
truths, and considerations for those consulting and those who use
consultants, across the public sector and nonprofit landscape.
Brilliantly done – a must-read!
~ Rick Swengros, Chief, Global Engagement Operations,
Kiernan Group Holdings
It is vital that we build an efficient government and sound nonprofit
services for everyone. Cosentino and Piekara’s description of
stakeholders, overview of frameworks, and sample cases are an
excellent resource for those considering the profession.
~ Nasir Qadree, Associate Director of Social Investments at AT&T
As a consultant in the public and social sector, I think Marc and
Evan produce a thoughtful, engaging, must-read for aspiring and
current practitioners. The details on effective stakeholder
management are spot-on and will help guide readers on an issue
that is often more important than getting the right strategy.
~ Rohit Agarwal, Senior Engagement Manager, McKinsey & Company
Cosentino and Piekara provide a practical, effective, and essential
resource for those interested in the nonprofit or public sector. This
book is a must-read for anyone looking to enter the field or sharpen
skills.
~ Olin Parker, Executive Director, Louisiana Department of Education
With this book, Cosentino and Piekara fill the gap in career
preparation coaching, offering advice on best interview practices for
the public sector and nonprofit consulting, as well as public service
and nonprofit organizations. From foundational information to
tackling advanced case questions, this book is a must-read for
college graduates who seek careers with meaning!
~ Cheryl A. Banker Senior Associate Director
and Pre-Business Adviser, Connecticut College
Finally, there is a book that provides true, helpful guidance
specifically designed for candidates considering careers in public
service.
~ Jennifer Jacoby Altscher, Public Interest Attorney
CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit offers a vivid look into
the eminently liquid seams between government and NPOs.
Cosentino and Piekara share valuable insights that empower
readers to effectively engage the gamut of players and interests in
the industry.
~ Pete Musser, CEO, Focus Earth
I’m a consultant who works primarily with tribal and local
governments, and the information provided in this book has really
given me a solid reference and framework to approach specific
instances that I face in my day-to-day work. As a board member and
current president of the local Boys & Girls Club, I’ve found this book
to be a huge help in understanding and developing a strong and
sustainable future for the benefit of our kids, our community, and our
organization.
~ Justin Martin, Owner, Perseverance Strategies Inc. and
President, Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties, Oregon
This book is the definitive resource for learning how to analyze case
studies. Whether pursuing a career in consulting, preparing students
for work in nonprofit consulting, or brushing up on your case
problem-solving, the models presented here will help you quickly
identify the root cause of challenges and articulate clear paths
forward – a must-read.
~ Rodrick Miller, President & CEO, Ascendant Global
I spent my career moving among government, business, and
nonprofits, and I can tell you that this book is sorely needed. There is
nothing like it out there for government and nonprofit interviews.
CASE IN POINT: Government and Nonprofit successfully navigates
the complexities and nuances of these interviews with clarity and
seasoned insights. This will instantly become THE authority on the
topic and should be an indispensable part of every young
professional’s must-read list!
~ Daniel J. Ostergaard, PhD
Clinical Associate Professor of International Business and
former Executive Director, Homeland Security Advisory Council
