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Strategy consulting recruitment in ME

Hi Guys,

Just a question around what's the state of strategy consulting recruitment in ME region, especially for lateral recruitment. Is it quite slow just like the rest of the world?. If it is, when is it likely to pickup pace again?

Apologies, if the question was already asked and thanks for the answers

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Top answer
on Nov 09, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach

Hi!

It's hard to assess tbh. Honestly, judging by my own candidate pipeline, I'd say ME is doing slightly better (more applicants still in the funnel there than in other regions, but this is not data-driven).

Realistically, this is beyond your control (I know it sucks). But there are many other things that you can influence. Have a look at this guide on what are the elements to consider when putting together an application strategy:


Good luck!
Cristian

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on Nov 09, 2023
ex A. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience

Hi Ankit, it is actually still quite good. Majority of my coachees are from the middle east region right now. Happy to put you in touch with some. Ping me for a coffee chat, Warm regards, Frederic 

Raj
Coach
on Nov 28, 2023
FREE 15MIN CONSULTATION | #1 Strategy& / OW coach | >70 5* reviews |90% offers ⇨ prep-success.super.site | MENA, DE, UK

In the Middle East region, the strategy consulting recruitment landscape has indeed been impacted by the global slowdown in hiring due to various factors such as the pandemic and economic conditions. Many firms have experienced a slowdown or freeze in their recruitment processes, including lateral recruitment.

As for when the pace is likely to pick up again, it can be challenging to provide a specific timeline as it depends on various factors such as market conditions, client demand, and overall economic recovery. However, as the global economy continues to stabilize and businesses regain momentum, it is expected that the demand for strategy consultants will gradually increase.

To stay updated on the recruitment situation in the Middle East region, I recommend keeping an eye on the websites and social media

Hagen
Coach
on May 31, 2024
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi Ankit,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

  • First of all, overall consulting recruiting in the Middle East is currently performing slightly better compared to many other regions.
  • Moreover, while it is challenging to predict precisely when the recruiting pace will (further) accelerate, it's essential not to get stalled in your application. The consulting job market is large, and there are still many candidates securing positions.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hani
Coach
on Nov 10, 2023
Associate and All-star Interviewer at OW | Ex-S& | 5+ years in the Middle East |300+ Interviews | INSEAD MBA

Hello Ankit,

In the Middle East region, the state of strategy consulting recruitment, especially for lateral positions, has been relatively robust compared to the global trends. The Middle East has continued to be an attractive market for consulting firms, driven by various factors, including economic growth, infrastructure development, and increased investment.

Recruiting in the Middle East remains strong, with a considerable demand for consulting services across various industries. However, it's important to note that the high demand has led to increased competition for consulting roles. Candidates often find themselves in a competitive landscape, as many professionals are drawn to the opportunities in the region.

In terms of top offices, Riyadh is typically regarded as one of the most prominent hubs for strategy consulting in the Middle East, following Riyadh, you'll find Doha as another key location that is recruiting heavily, and finally Dubai and Abu Dhabi also remain significant consulting destinations.

Happy to discuss the recruiting process of each firm in the ME in detail!

Ian
Coach
on Nov 10, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi Ankit,

ME has been the strongest region this year. In particular, Riyadh has been booming, followed a bit by UAE.

Also, anecdotal, but I'm noticing interviewing/hiring pickup elsewhere (Europe + the US) as of the past few weeks

Aude
Coach
edited on Nov 10, 2023
Ex-BCG | Ex-EY | Ex-PwC | Tokyo, Hong Kong, New York, Central & Latin America

Hi there!

ME seems to be the one region hiring and growing relatively fast! Other regions like the US or Europe and even Latin America are facing a bit of slowing down…to give you an example, my ex-peers at BCG from the Dubai office were always trying to get me to come to ME as there are tons of job opportunities available.

Good luck!

Alberto
Coach
on Nov 13, 2023
Ex-McKinsey AP | +13 yrs hiring top talent | I help you think, speak & perform like a real consultant (95% success)

Hi Ankit,

ME region recruiting is improving. I have several coachees who has recently secured interviews in different offices there.

Best,

Alberto

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Nikita
Coach
on Nov 14, 2023
MBB & Tier2 preparation | 100+ offers | 8 years coaching | 3000+ sessions

Hi Ankit,

Can confirm what other coaches have stated.
ME region is more active recruitment-wise nowadays.

Also, a few of my coachees have received offers in this region recently (Kearney, Strategy&, Alvarez&Marsal).

Regards,
Nick

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