Consulting firms in SEA

Great question. It really depends on which country in SEA you're applying to — but in general:

• For Singapore/KL, English is the working language and being fluent is usually sufficient, even for local clients. No additional language required.
• For markets like Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia, many firms do prefer or require fluency in the local language, especially for client-facing roles. Some may still consider strong English-only candidates, but it’s less common unless you’re applying for a regional or specialized role.
• At MBB and Tier 2 firms, language expectations are usually tied to client mix — if most clients are local, they’ll expect you to communicate in the local language.

If you're targeting SEA broadly, start with Singapore or KL — it's the most accessible market language-wise, and often serves as a regional hub. The biggest issue with Singapore is work permit - that's why many try to look in KL instead.

Let me know if you want help tailoring your approach to a specific country or firm.

Hi Martin,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, for countries like Singapore and Malaysia, English is the main business language, so if you are fluent, that’s usually totally fine, even in client-facing roles. I would advise you to focus your applications on these markets first.
• Moreover, in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia, consulting firms often expect fluency in the local language, especially when working directly with clients. Some firms may still consider strong English-only applicants, but it's more the exception. I would advise you to check job descriptions before applying.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

It depends on the country and firm, but here’s the general rule for Southeast Asia (SEA):

• Singapore: English fluency is completely fine. It’s the main business language, and most consulting work here is regional or international.
• Malaysia and the Philippines: English is also widely used in business, so local language fluency is not required, though it’s a plus.
• Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam: Local language skills matter much more. Many clients are domestic, so firms usually prefer bilingual candidates — though a few MBB and Tier 2 offices make exceptions for standout English-only profiles.

If your goal is to work regionally or at MBB, Singapore is typically the easiest entry point for English speakers.

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out.

Best,
Evelina

Hello,

For most regional hubs like Singapore, English fluency is usually enough. But for local offices (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia), firms often prefer fluency in the local language since many clients operate primarily in it. You can still apply, just highlight your regional interest and any cross-cultural experience! It helps if you had experience or exposure to the local culture.

Hey Martin

In Southeast Asia, fluency in English is usually enough for most international and large regional consulting firms, especially for entry-level roles. Local language skills can help, particularly for client-facing work or smaller local firms, but they’re not always required.

Best,
Alessa

It depends on the office and the specific role that you're applying for. 

Most offices, esp smaller ones in smaller markets expect that you know the local language. It's best though to validate this with the recruiter from that office. 

Then it depends what role you're applying for. If you're applying as a generalist, they are less flexible with the requirements. But if you're applying as a specialist or if you're bringing in some specific expertise then their expectations are negotiable. This too can be best clarified by the recruiter.

Best,
Cristian

Hi,

I worked in SEA in T2 and MBB. 

All offices require you to be fluent in English. Local language can be either a requirement or 'plus point', depending on the role they are hiring and what the firms are looking for. 

There are many non-locals who have joined KL, BKK, HCM offices - but IMO you are at a disadvantage and more likely than not will struggle in the long term. 

Singapore - basically almost impossible unless you are Citizen / PR, given the strict quotas.

All the best!