Dear all, I'm trying to compare offers from BCG vs. Bain in the middle east and I focus on financial services sector in terms: 1. Brand name in the region 2. Comparative strength/experience in the financial sector industry 3. Culture and broad people mgmt internal practices I would really appreciate to hear your thoughts. Sharing personal experience would be super helpful. Thank you in advance!
1. BCG is the biggest of the firms in the region and has the brand name reputation behind it.
2. As the biggest firm in the region, the BCG Middle East has pretty much every practice area. They are strong in the general banking/financial services side, including digital transformation. BCG has also been building its digital capabilities in the region, including setting up a Platinion office in the Middle East.
If you are interested more in PE/DD work, Bain would be the better fit.
3. Like the other experts said, network with the people in those office (or recent departures who may speak more candidly). Ask them about the elements of culture most important to you.
Hi there
1. BCG
2. Bain (generally, with DD and PE work)
3. This is relative to what you want
I highly recommend you speak with people at these offices! Pick up the phone/zoom and get into real conversations with this people to feel out which company makes most sense for you!
Super helpful. indeed, i have few calls scheduled. Thanks a lot Ian
Ian, A small related question: What about general banking work (digital, large scale transformation). who is stronger of the two (serving large portion of the top banks in the regions) . do you know?
Hi There - Giving a bit of perspective from a Bainie
1. BCG. However, Bain is growing at a rapid rate in the regions
2. Two ways to look at this. If you are looking at consulting for the financial services sector, I would check the regional websites and see the partners in that specialization in the region and the one with more partners in a particular industry will have a stronger presence. If you are looking at private equity work, Bain is stronger.
3. This is tough to gauge as it is personal and subjective. I would speak with the hires in the last 1-3 years to understand their experiences of the culture and the leadership in the office and see if that is what you want.
Both firms are great options and growing rapidly in the region. Bain might provide more growth opportunities given that it is smaller in scale and expanding rapidly.
Happy to have a chat and provide more perspective if you like. Feel free to reach out to me.
very helpful indeed... Many thanks Andrea for your response!