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

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!

• 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.

Hey!

For sure you can do the switch. We have several colleagues at BCG that came from a similar background than yours. 

Now, that does not mean you should expect your 2 years of experience to convert to 2 years at MBB (meaning you being hired as Consultant). What happens majority of times is that you "lose" the tenure and start as Associate entry-level with the possibility of fast track promotion if you prove yourself. 

This is something you need to consider and decide yourself - if it is worth it. 

I had a friend that came from Delloitte already managing teams and got into BCG as Associate. She was struggling a bit with taking orders again & not being owner of her work, but quickly promoted to next steps & got to learn the MBB consulting skills before managing a case.

Best of luck and, in my opinion, you should always try!

Hi there,

Q: 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?

It depends on what you mean exactly by “Big 4”, as they cover multiple divisions/jobs.

If you are referring to the strategy division of the firms (eg EY Parthenon for EY, Strategy& for PwC), it is possible to switch. That’s because the job is quite comparable.

If you are referring to accounting / auditing, it is far less likely. Not impossible, but you might need an MBA to boost your chances.

As mentioned by Benjamin, you can check if hiring is possible from Big 4 for your target office on LinkedIn.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi,

In my experience, I've seen the contrary - I came from a Deloitte myself and many of my coworkers at McKinsey also came from Deloitte (oddly enough, in my associate cohort of ~20, there was 4 of us). 

Please do not be considered by nay-sayers.

If you look at your background:

• Target School
• Quants/analytical thinking degree
• Big 4 consulting which indicates: Consulting experience, understanding the way the industry works, PPT and Excel experience, you've been client-facing before etc. 

In my experience, you've got an incredibly good chance of getting invited for an interview with an MBB.

What I recommend you do:

• Hone your CV: highlight your accomplishments, your leadership experience, the numerical values of your work etc.
• Begin your case prep.

Good luck and happy to chat

Yes, it's definitely possible to move from Big 4 to MBB, and your profile is competitive.

• MBB hires from Big 4 regularly, especially candidates with strong academics and consulting experience
• Your Cambridge background and technical degree strengthen your case
• Focus on building a compelling story, securing a referral, and preparing well for interviews – your chances are solid

In case you are interested, I know a few folks that made the move so happy to share their experiences. Best of luck!