Strategy Consulting - Amsterdam

Happy to share some thoughts on your questions.

1. I see you've received some answers below on this, and it makes sense to focus on a few firms, but considering how competitive recruitment is generally and then specifically this cycle, I'd recommend you go broad anyway. Meaning, apply to lots of firms to ensure that you even have a few to interview with 

2. The market is still relatively low and competition is high. So make the most of the few opportunities out there.

3. Yes, you might want to have a look at this guide that breaks down how to approach the application process:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

Here’s how Amsterdam looks for international strategy consultants:

1. English-friendly offices

• McKinsey and BCG Amsterdam are the most international and open to English-only candidates
• Bain Amsterdam is more Dutch-leaning but still hires strong English-speaking experienced hires
• Oliver Wyman, Roland Berger and EY-Parthenon are also good options for non-Dutch speakers

2. Current hiring market
Hiring is a bit slow and selective, but still active
With 2 years at ADL and a strategy boutique plus strong academics, you’re very much in range for both MBB and Tier 2

3. Tips for Dutch interviews

• Be structured and calm in cases
• Keep communication clear and to the point
• Show team mindset and authenticity
• Close every case with a practical and grounded recommendation

You have a competitive profile for Amsterdam, especially as an experienced hire.

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out :)

Best,
Evelina

Amsterdam is international but still favors Dutch speakers. McKinsey is the most open to English-only. Bain and BCG expect some local language comfort. Tier 2 varies massively by team.
With 2 YOE in strategy, you’re competitive. But hiring is slow everywhere right now, so expect more filtering.
Your job is to network, tighten your application, and interview well. Everything else is noise.

Remember, networking is absolutely critical for recruiting success. Explained more with data-backed evidence in Applications

hey there :)

For Amsterdam, McKinsey and BCG are quite international and English-friendly, especially for experienced hires, while Bain usually expects at least some Dutch. With 2 years of strategy experience and a strong MBA, you’re in a solid position, but the market is competitive..Dutch offices get fewer experienced-hire slots than in London. For applications, tailor your CV to show impact and results, and for interviews, practice structuring and mental maths under time pressure. Networking with current consultants in Amsterdam can also really help you get a foot in the door.

best, Alessa :)

Hi there,

Amsterdam is generally quite international, and most MBB and Tier 2 teams there work comfortably in English. With 2 years of prior strategy experience you’re in a solid position, but the market has been a bit tighter lately. Biggest tips would be to show genuine interest in the Dutch market, highlight any cross-border project experience, and be ready for very structured, case-heavy interviews. If you can connect with people in the Amsterdam offices to understand their day-to-day, that usually helps a lot.