What is the difference between a Principal and an Associate Director (AD) at BCG Platinion? Any insights would be helpful

AD is one role above Principal to my knowledge. 

But in all fairness, it would be best to ask the recruiter. Why?

1. Because they keep on changing the names as the firms and the practices develop. I've been in the consulting world for 7 years and since then have already witnessed significant changes and additions. 

Back in the days, consulting firms used to operate more like law firms, with Associates and Partners. That would mean that somebody would often be an associate for a decade before making it to Partner. 

For many reasons, one of which would be motivating their employees, consulting firms have created almost 3-8 in between roles. 

Most recently, in MBB there was BA, Associate, Manager, Junior Partner, Partner (under different namings). A couple of years ago BCG introduced an intermediary step between Junior Partner/AP and Partner where you would be theoretically called a Partner but you wouldn't be a shareholder. To be a shareholder you'd need to become a ‘Managing partner’. Does it sound complicated? That's because it is. 

2. There are also differences between the regions. 

In some regions, some roles don't even exist e.g., Junior Associate or Senior Business Analyst. 

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

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

• To my knowledge, Associate Directors are one level above Principals.

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

Best,

Hagen

You can find the DACH consulting salaries report 2024 here!

Hi there,

AD is higher and gearing up to be Partner.

Ultimately, the dive deeper into the exact role and what it looks like (changes by office btw), just ask! Ask the recruiter if that's what you're being considered for, ask the people you're networking with, and, if you're at the firm, ask your peers!