Applying to MBB SEA

Question

Hi, I am looking to apply to MBB SEA offices with a focus on Bain > BCG > McKinsey. This is partly due to culture fit and exit career path and also networks that I have from these offices.

I am from one of the Big 4 Strategy Practices and is due for a Manager position in a couple of months. I have been with the firm for 6 years, but only the most recent 3 years are in the strategy practice. I am not aiming for an EM role as I know an M role in Big 4 and Big 3 differs.

The question is, I am not sure as to how to assess when I am ready to submit my application. I've been told to do it soon before August period as I will be then competing with campus candidates. I need to prepare for casing and all and that has already created a mental hurdle. I am technically not starting from scratch either given my background. However need some advice on this please. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi,

I would suggest that you start connecting with folks at your preferred MBBs now - both consultants and recruiters. Since you’re an experienced hire, you can recruit off-cycle - and given your existing network, you can probably secure a referral.

In parallel, you can start working on your casing in the couple of months until you get your promotion to Manager.

Once that happens, you’ll be interview-ready, with a referral, and one step higher in seniority. That would be a good time to apply.

Let me know if you need any help with casing or your CV etc. Best of luck.

Answer 2

Hi there! Agree with Mihir that it’s never too early to start connecting with recruiters.

One thing that’s important to note is that Bain tends to have much fewer slots for hiring compared to BCG and McK. Recruiting team tends to decide at the start of the year how many positions they can hire for and for several positions, they are already hiring for 2026. Also there are varying difficulties to get into SEA offices eg Singapore would unfortunately be a challenge to get into if you’re not Singaporean.

So start getting in touch with them early! Let me know if you’d like to know more and if you want help preparing for the application

Cheers,

Nicholas