From Consultant to Camera: How Nicole Chan Loeb Built a Thriving Photography Career in 18 Months
Staff Editor Former Deloitte Consultant Finds Success in Career Pivot to Photography
Nicole Chan Loeb, a former management consultant at Deloitte, has successfully transitioned from the world of finance to a thriving career in photography. Despite her initial success in consulting, Loeb found herself disillusioned with the demanding lifestyle and sought a better work-life balance.
During her time at Deloitte, Loeb experienced the intense “3-4-5 program,” which required consultants to work three weeks away from home, four days a week, for five days each week. This grueling schedule, coupled with observations of senior managers struggling to maintain a healthy work-life balance, led Loeb to question her long-term career satisfaction.
Encouraged by her partner, Loeb made the bold decision to resign from Deloitte and pursue photography full-time. During her notice period, she took strategic steps to launch her photography business, despite mixed reactions from friends and family regarding her career change.
Loeb’s transition wasn’t without challenges. She employed various strategies to gain her first clients and build a reputation in the competitive photography industry. Interestingly, she found that many skills from her consulting background were transferable to her new venture, particularly in client relationships and business management.
Within 18 months, Loeb achieved financial sustainability in her photography career. She now expresses deep satisfaction with her current lifestyle, which allows her to balance work with family life and personal values. Loeb credits her supportive partner and mentors from Deloitte for helping her navigate this significant career change.
Reflecting on her journey, Loeb states she has no regrets about leaving consulting for photography. She continues to utilize skills learned at Deloitte in her current work and acknowledges the privilege of making a living through her passion for photography.
Loeb’s story serves as an inspiring example of successful career pivoting, demonstrating that with determination and transferable skills, professionals can find fulfillment in unexpected fields.
