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Which are the consulting firms that practice up-or-out policy?

consulting up or out
Recent activity on Feb 25, 2019
3 Answers
3.5 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Feb 25, 2019

I generally hear this about MBBs. Is the practice common across other/all consulting firms as well (like S&, ATK, RB..)?

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Sidi
Expert
replied on Feb 25, 2019
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers

Hi Anonymous,

the up-or-out policy is still seen as the standard among board-level strategy consultancies. However, there are differences between some of the non-MBB firms and the strictness with which they apply it. For example, I know that Accenture Strategy and also Oliver Wyman are not really having an up-or-out culture in the strict sense. But if you want to know the specifics for any particular firm, I believe you have to talk to employees and/or alumni from this firm.

Cheers, Sidi

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Guennael
Expert
replied on Feb 25, 2019
Ex-MBB, Experienced Hire; I will teach you not only the how, but also the why of case interviews

Don't forget also - even at MBB there are often ways to stay in the company even if you aren't approved to remain on the partner track. You can switch to the expert track for example, or even join the back office functions and remain your whole career. I have seen many very smart and talented people in these functions at BCG, with a successful career & real advancement opportunities. The work-life balance is often much better as well fwiw

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Vlad
Expert
replied on Feb 25, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

It happens here and there but of course not as strict as at MBB companies. In most of the cases, it really depends on how your office / practice is doing. I've seen up or out cases even at Accenture in UK.

Best!

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