A Lateral Perspective: Zayn Cochinwala on Joining L.E.K.

Zayn Cochinwala joined L.E.K. as a lateral hire Associate in the San Francisco office, bringing a unique background that blends healthcare and biotech. In this Q&A, he shares his journey into consulting, his experience at L.E.K., and advice for others considering a similar path.

Can you tell us about your background and how you got into consulting?

I grew up in San Jose, California, and went to school at UT Austin, where I majored in biology and minored in business. I was on a pre-med track, so much of my early experience was healthcare-heavy, with internships and jobs across hospitals, clinical research organizations, and physician’s offices. Over time, I found myself drawn to the broader business and strategic decisions shaping healthcare, rather than a purely clinical path. After graduating, I joined 23andMe on the research team, supporting work related to biopharma partnerships. While I was gaining exposure to the corporate world, I wanted to build a deeper understanding of what makes a strong business. That led me to explore consulting and I discovered L.E.K., which is known for its strength in life sciences and healthcare. Since I joined the team, it’s felt like being back in school: constantly learning and building skills that will be valuable long-term.

How did L.E.K. stand out to you when you were exploring new opportunities?

L.E.K. stood out to me because of its strong reputation in life sciences and healthcare consulting. As I was exploring opportunities and speaking with professionals in biopharma and healthcare services, L.E.K. was consistently mentioned as a firm that advises leading companies in the space. At L.E.K., these sectors are core areas of focus, creating exposure to major clients and meaningful projects, which have made the experience especially impactful.

What was the interview process like?

Coming from a non-business focus in my previous role, the case interviews initially felt intimidating. I had two rounds: the first with Senior Associates, and the second with three Managing Directors. I prepared for one to two weeks, which helped me get comfortable with casing. One helpful part of the process was a practice session between rounds, where I received feedback that boosted my confidence going into final interviews. Overall, the process was structured but supportive, and the people were approachable throughout.

What has your project experience been like so far?

I’ve worked across healthcare, med tech, and life sciences, typically rotating every two to six weeks. That model keeps things engaging; you’re constantly learning and becoming familiar with new industries. Each project has pushed me to get up to speed quickly, think more commercially, and build a stronger understanding of the healthcare and biopharma ecosystem.

Is there a standout project you’ve worked on?

One project I really enjoyed focused on concierge medicine. It explored a model where patients pay a mid-tier fee for more personalized access to a physician. I found it compelling because it sits at the intersection of healthcare and consumer experience, and it felt especially timely given how difficult accessing care can be for many people today.

Can you share a moment that captures the L.E.K. culture and what you enjoy most about the experience?

What stands out to me is how connected the firm feels both within and across offices. Even though I’m based in San Francisco and have built strong relationships here, I’ve also had the chance to work with people in places like New York and LA. It’s been fun to build those relationships virtually and then reconnect in person when I’m in those cities. More broadly, one of the things I’ve appreciated most about L.E.K. is how much it pushes you to grow as an individual. The work sharpens how you think, communicate, and problem-solve, while constantly exposing you to new industries and ideas.

What advice would you give to someone considering L.E.K. as a lateral hire?

First, practice case interviews thoroughly. That’s critical. Beyond that, be clear on why you want to move into consulting. If you’re someone who feels limited by doing the same work every day and wants variety, consulting—and L.E.K. specifically—can be a great fit. L.E.K. is fast-paced and diligence-heavy, so it’s worth thinking about whether that type of environment is what you’re looking for. If you align with those aspects and prepare well, you’ll be in a strong position