Is it possible to go from Big 4 consulting to MBB?

Question

I have been coming across a lot of content that MBB does not like hiring from Big 4 firms. Is this true and should I consider my chances as diminished? I am from a target school (Cambridge) and come from a highly quantitative degree (Chemical Engineering) before joining the Big 4. I have just over 2 years of consulting experience at the Big 4.

Answer 1

Hi,

Not sure where you are reading this and what is the specific context. But lets take an objective look:

The bulk / main recruiting channels for most MBB still come from academic institutions, and mainly still the MBA from a cohort POV
Experienced hires are becoming an increasingly popular trend due to several advantages they bring
There are people from Big 4 who have transited to MBB (a simple LinkedIn search will prove this)

So of course from a hiring pool POV they are not interviewing as many people from T2 as they are from MBA. But is it impossible to make the switch? No. I came from a Tier 2 and also made the switch to MBB.

What's important is you focus on making sure your application is strong and you have referrals.

All the best!

Answer 2

The primary recruiting pipeline for most MBB firms still comes from academic institutions—especially MBAs—when viewed from a cohort perspective.
That said, experienced hires are increasingly becoming a key trend, thanks to the unique value they bring to the table.
There are definitely people who've transitioned from Big 4 or Tier 2 firms into MBB. A quick LinkedIn search will point you in the right direction—like following a geometry arrow straight to examples of successful moves.