Transfer from Tier 2 to Tier 1

Over time is becoming more complex to shift from Big 4 + Accenture to MBB.
Switching from OW-RB-AP-A&M is easier, but getting tougher.

At Big4 + Accenture, problem-solving, communication, type of projects, speed of execution, challenges are so different to those you face at MBB that many MBB have noticed that people coming from Big 4 + Accenture take a lot of time to learn how to work the MBB-way.

In some real Tier-2 firms (OW, RB, AP, A&M) more than 50% of the senior people have some kind of MBB experience and that makes junior resources more aligned with MBB's requests. 

The slowdown we have seen recently in the consulting hiring makes everything more complex.

The other thing to consider is that if you stay 2 years at Deloitte, to make an example, and you move to McKinsey, your seniority will be lost, and you'll have to start from entry-level. In my view, this should not be an issue, but you have to be aware of it. 


 

Hi there,

The short answer is that it is hard. MBB don't “target” Tier 2 because those consultants have learned a different way of working/operating. That said, it's not at all impossible. You need to work hard for it by showing success in your current role (lots of experience, promotions, strong network, etc.). Then, you need to network extensively and get to know people at the Tier 1 firms. 

Hello,

It should be fairly doable as long as you can crack the interviews :) For sure you have a higher chance of receiving the interview invites given your work experience.

All the best!

Rushabh

Hi there,

It is possible but it happens way less often than transfers from industry > MBB. Ian pointed out some reasons. Additionally, I believe many folks in tier-2 firms are happy where they are and do not want to go through the whole recruiting hassle again (all while working a lot already).

If you are interested in switching, I would recommend targeted networking (reaching out to the right EMs, Partners, and Associates within fields that are interesting for you or people you share a common background with).

Big 4 would not fall under tier 2 and chances are lower to transition.

Cheers,

Florian

You have chances… but not sure how to give you a more precise answer… 

Your chances will be higher from a Tier 2 than from a Big4, more so if not coming from one of their strategy brands.

It’s quite hard to say how high the percentages are as it depends a lot on what you’re doing at the T2 firm. Any experience is great to be able to bolster your answers to the FIT questions - but it needs to be the type of experience which gives you opportunities to get great stories. 

Good luck! 

I know people who transferred from Tier 2 to MBB - both at the junior level as well as tenured consultant / manager levels. So it is possible. 

In general I would say your chances are higher if you bring a certain expertise to the table (industry/functional). But this is something you usually don’t pick up after working in consulting for only 1-2 years. It depends on the individual case

Nothing is impossible but its very hard to give you pointed advice without knowing details of your background. But it can be done with good planning, networking and strong application.

Hi there,

It's possible but it's not guaranteed at all. You really need to put in a lot of efforts in securing a good referral, and ace the tests and the interviews.

Mario

Hi there,

I dont have experience in London/NY, but sharing my POV making a switch from Tier 2 to Tier 1 in SEA.

1. It is possible, but whether your chance is high or low will depend on
   • Strong referral (this helped me personally)
   • Office growth & demand
     • At least in SEA, I know MBB has been actively recruiting from Tier 2
     • The reality is that MBB is not averse to hiring laterally from Tier 2 but that it is just difficult to find qualified candidates
   • Relevancy of experience (2 years exp may be relevant enough to join a specific practice area
2. Based on my experience, consulting transfers at times are preferred (if they come from a strong Tier 2) because they at least have some consulting background vs MBA hires 
3. Yes you will give up your network and reputation in your current firm and you will have to rebuild everything from scratch
4. However, speaking from experience, it is 100% worth it to make the switch if you can

All the best!

Coming from a T2 firm is a good background to get into MBB. Some points to note - MBB are highly aware that many roles in T2 are not strategic (a lot of work is pure ops or pure project management) which does not translate to the work MBB does. So have very clear examples on your resume that highlights the work experience that they are after.

Additionally, the hiring market seems to have slowed considerably in Q4 so timing may also play a role in your chances of getting in. If the economy and demand for consulting accelerates as it did in Q4 of 2020 and Q1 of 2021 then your chances are much higher (assuming you have the right work experience).