Can you lateral to MBB in 2025?

Hey there.

100% MBB firms could hire you with your investment banking experience. 

Something I'd like for you to remember and something I tell my coachees all the time: 

• MBB firms hire you for your brain, and not necessarily your knowledge

What this mean is they want good problem solvers who can help generate impact with clients. So what they would want to see in you is that you have a way of thinking that can help them solve various client problems

So what I recommend is just to try accomplish and achieve as much as you can in you IB experience now, so your CV can reflect these and you can get past the screening process in recruiting! 

All the best!!

Hi there,

Q: I don’t know if it’s likely they’d consider hiring someone like me with only a year or two of work experience and if the hiring environment is getting better to begin with.

A profile in IB is fine for MBB, however you will not have all the years of work experience in banking recognized as seniority.

Regardless the chances in 2025 – I don’t think anyone can predict them clearly. In any case, the ban is usually 12-18 months, so you might simply apply again the following year if not successful.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hello!

1-2 years in IB is relevant experience for MBB, so you should feel comfortable applying for a role!

Whether 2025 will be a good year for hiring is unclear (hopefully yes), but this shouldn't stop you from submitting an application!

Good luck and fingers crossed!

Definitely worth exploring! The best way to get intel on your question is to network with consultants in your target office. 

They can ask their experienced hire recruiting teams for an update on hiring need and timing for interview rounds. I did this often to get my referrals the right intel on when to apply/prep for cases. 

If you have 1-2 years of experience, you’re still considered an “experienced” hire (off cycle recruiting). 

When folks say lateral hires, I think more of manager+ level folks with direct consulting experience. 

DM me if you want to chat further! 

Hey! 

Lateral hiring at MBB is possible, especially if you have strong experience and skills from investment banking, which aligns well with consulting’s demands. With 1-2 years of experience, you’d likely target roles equivalent to Business Analyst/Associate (McKinsey), Associate Consultant (Bain), or Junior Consultant/Consultant (BCG), depending on the office and your level of expertise.

Key Considerations:

1. Experience Fit: Highlight transferable skills like problem-solving, stakeholder management, and analytical rigor from banking.
2. Timing: While predicting 2025’s hiring environment is difficult, MBB frequently hires laterally, particularly for candidates with strong resumes like yours.
3. Networking: Leverage alumni connections and LinkedIn to reach consultants or recruiters at your target offices. Referrals can make a big difference.
4. Interview Prep: Focus on case interview preparation early, as this will be a key determinant.

You’re on the right track, and with tailored preparation and outreach, 2025 could be a great year for your move! Feel free to ask if you want more tips on crafting your application.

Alessa :)

I have to disagree with some of the comments here.

One to two years of experience outside of MBB will likely lead you to an entry-level role at MBB.

2025 is as good a time as any to apply, as long as your GPA is high.

You can learn more about how consulting firms evaluate candidates here: MBB Hiring Hacks – Behind the Curtain Secrets.

Best,

Alberto

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Explore my latest case inspired by a real MBB interview: TitanTrail - Operations Outsourcing