IE University Signs Strategic Partnership with Consulted to Advance Careers in Development Consulting

IE Talent and Careers launched a strategic partnership with Consulted, the Spanish Association of Development Consulting Firms, creating new opportunities for IE students and alumni to pursue careers in development consulting and sustainability.

The agreement was signed during a meeting between representatives from IE University and Consulted. The delegation included María Garrón, President of Consulted and Managing Director at DT Global Europe; Guillermo Álvarez, Consulting Manager at Eductrade, representing the Vice-President of Consulted; and Mirjana Jelic, Head of Operations at Altair Asesores.

Representing IE University were Borja Santos, Vice-Dean of the School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs (SPEGA); Soizic Belliard, Executive Director of Academic Partnerships; and Pablo Marco, Associate Vice-Dean of School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs.

“The signing between IE University and Consulted will foster collaboration across several areas, including talent and career opportunities, academic projects, capstone initiatives, and research partnerships,” said Álvaro Ros Penche, Head of Global Impact at IE Talent & Careers.

The partnership connects IE students with a network of 15 member firms representing an annual budget of more than €300 million and over 1,000 professionals working on development, environmental, and social impact projects worldwide.

Zayne Imam, Head of Talent & Careers at IE University, emphasized the significance of the agreement in strengthening IE’s partnerships within the global development sector and expanding institutional opportunities.

“We’re delighted to have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Consulted, a leading association of organizations in the development consulting space. This partnership reveals exciting opportunities for collaboration across IE University, not only through Talent & Careers but also with the School of Politics, Economics, and Global Affairs (SPEGA), increasing opportunities for students in the development sector.” 

Following the signing, IE hosted the Consulted Panel: Careers in Development Consulting, featuring representatives from DT Global Europe, Eductrade, and Altair Asesores. The event brought together more than 30 students and three IE alumni currently working at DT Global and explored the evolving nature of development consulting and the skills required to drive meaningful impact in the field.

“This partnership reinforces our shared commitment to preparing future leaders who combine technical expertise with the human skills needed to make a difference,” added Imam.

The collaboration highlights IE University’s mission to connect students with global employers and foster partnerships that advance innovation, sustainability, and social impact.

According to Borja Santos, Vice Dean of IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs, “we are witnessing a paradigm shift in international development, as many traditional donors move from aid to partnership-based engagement between countries. Consultancy firms play a key role in implementing these partnerships and ensuring high-quality services in low- and middle-income countries. At IE University, we are training the next generation of professionals who will drive impact across the public and private sectors.”