It is not common, but it can happen. I am such an example - worked in BCG for 2 years from 2011 to 2013 and then lateraled over to McKinsey in 2013, staying there for another 5 years.

Cheers, Sidi

Besides Sidi's 9bvious example, I have also seen people interning in one and later joining the other, or changing after an MBA. I also had a McK Partner who became BCG partner later. Definitely not common, but it happens.

For all their perceived and argued differences, the 3 firms are still more similar than anything

As a build on what other experts have already said - lateral moves sometimes happen when one firm is actively trying to headhunt consultants from a particular practice to build up their own. For example, some time ago I heard BCG tried to recruit a number of Bain consultants to grow their Private Equity practice.

I also heard of lateral hires happening slightly more frequently in "hyper-growth" markets like Dubai, where firms are really fighting for top-talent in order to fuel their massive growth.

Hi Anonymous,

as mentioned, there are examples of such move, although not as common as moving from second tiers to MBB and the other way around. Main reasons for that include:

• Lack of growth opportunities with one company (eg longer than expected to move from Project Leader to Principal)
• Relocation in different states. I personally know a guy who moved from one MBB to another as had to move from NY to Milan.
• Cultural issues - lack of fit with colleagues or with the culture of the company

Best,
Francesco