The Future of Consulting Talent 2026 Report
How is AI reshaping the consulting industry, and what does it mean for the future of talent?
Created in collaboration with Garwood Growth and The Berkeley Partnership, our latest report explores the changing consulting landscape, from AI’s impact on traditional business models to evolving hiring strategies, skills and talent development.
Drawing on insights from 26 industry stakeholders, including consulting leaders, founders, investors and buyers of consulting services, alongside our consultant survey, we examine the challenges, opportunities and trends shaping the industry’s future.
Why this report matters in 2026
The consulting industry is entering a new phase of growth, but that growth also brings increased competition for talent.
94% of surveyed consultants agree that AI fluency will become a baseline expectation for all consultants, much like Excel.
Only 5 of the 18 consulting firms interviewed have adapted their recruitment assessment processes for AI, despite almost all saying AI skills are important.
72% of surveyed consultants expect entry-level hiring to decline materially over the next three years, despite MCA member firms increasing graduate recruitment by 10% in 2025.
To explore what the future could hold for consulting talent