Hello everyone,
I would really appreciate any insights from those familiar with consulting recruiting in the Middle East.
For some background: moving to the region has been a long-term goal of mine since my MBA. Back in 2024, I made it to final rounds twice with BCG Middle East but unfortunately did not receive an offer.
This year, after continuing to work and prepare, I finally managed to re-enter the process. I was fortunate to secure referrals with both McKinsey and Oliver Wyman Middle East. My McKinsey Round 1 interview is currently scheduled for the end of March, and I was planning to apply to Oliver Wyman shortly with a referral as well.
However, all of this was in motion before the recent regional developments. First and foremost, I genuinely hope everyone in the region is safe. I completely understand that hiring is likely not a priority during such a situation.
At the same time, it has taken me nearly three years to reach this stage in the process again, so I’m trying to understand what the realistic outlook might be.
A few questions I’m hoping to get perspectives on:
- How do regional tensions typically affect consulting hiring pipelines in the Middle East?
- Is it common for firms to pause or significantly slow experienced-hire recruiting in these situations?
- Would it be wiser to postpone interviews if possible, or continue with the process as scheduled?
- Does the hiring bar tend to become more selective during periods of uncertainty?
Any insight on how recruiting operations typically adjust during these moments would be extremely helpful. I’d be grateful for any advice on how candidates should approach the situation.
Thank you very much in advance.
