If I join Bain at 21, how old can I expect to be when I make it to partner level?

Hey there, 

Based off how things are now, I'd say it can take you anything between 8 - 12 years without going for MBA to reach Partner at Bain. This does vary somewhat across regions and will also be affected by the practices you join. But generally (and for simplicity), from Associate => Consultant => Manager => Principal => Partner, you can spend anywhere from 2-3 years in each role. This can be 4 years too for the more senior roles and depending on slow economic cycles.

So if you join at 21, in a great (early case) scenario, you could reach there by 29 or as late as 33 or more. 

All the best

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offer from Bain!

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

• First of all, it usually takes around 10-12 years to reach partner, so starting at 21 could mean your early-to-mid 30s.
• Moreover, please keep in mind that it takes a lot of sacrifice and luck to become a partner.
• Lastly, I would advise you to focus on your performance and growth rather than targeting a specific age or role.

You can find more on this topic here: Salaries in the consulting industry.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Congrats! What a great achievement.

Your timeline seems realistic and I have seen a few similar profiles in McK while I was there.

All the best,

Florian

PS: I have written a book called Consulting Career Secrets. Check it out on Amazon if you are interested. I detail how to navigate the entry, work towards an (early) promotion while paying attention to work-life balance concerns and many other things!

To add to my colleagues’ responses, I’ll point out that less than 5% of people at the entry level actually make it to partner.

Some move on to pursue interesting exit opportunities, others prioritize finding a better work-life balance, and some simply don’t understand the dynamics needed to hack the system and accelerate their careers.

Best,

Alberto

Let's look at the average BCG progression

Associate -> 2 years

Senior Associate -> 1 year [not all geographies have this]

Consultant -> 2 years

Project Leader -> 2 years

Principal -> 4-6 years

Equity Partner 

So assuming zero gaps in between and you get promoted on average/normal track, you need around ~10-12 years. Do note that promotion to partnership also depends on many other factors at that time - not everyone who puts themselves up for election gets it.

You should make it at 32-34, depending on whether you take a 1 or 2 year MBA. Unlikely to make it faster.

Honestly, does it really make a difference on the long run if you take +1 or -1 year?

Hello there,

Congratulations on the offer! 

If you don't face any setback that delay your progression, 10-12 years sounds about right. 

In between... life happens :) 

Best,

Mari