Consulting Weekly

Welcome to this week’s edition of our Consulting Industry Intelligence podcast—a must must-listen for professionals who want to stay ahead in management consulting. Don’t forget to subscribe and forward this briefing to your colleagues to ensure your entire team is up to speed on the latest trends and risks shaping our sector.This issue features insights especially relevant for our competitive positioning and client advisory work. First, Capgemini’s “AI House” model promises to revolutionize hospital operations, demonstrating how digital transformation frameworks are reshaping healthcare consulting. Second, a recent cybersecurity breach at McKinsey’s internal AI platform serves as a cautionary tale for all consultancies investing in advanced tech, highlighting the urgency of robust digital defenses. Finally, KPMG’s top placement in the 2026 “Beste Unternehmensberater” ranking signals shifting client priorities and competitive benchmarks in service excellence.Also in this issue:- Capgemini and McDonald’s extend global partnership to boost digital innovation in retail.- McKinsey: German enterprises accelerate AI adoption, outpacing global peers despite regulatory headwinds.- BCG warns of “AI Brain Fry” burnout as knowledge workers struggle to adapt to multiple AI tools.- Roland Berger reports that most firms still fail to achieve positive ROI from AI investments.

This week’s episode brings together key developments shaping the consulting landscape, with a particular focus on digital transformation, AI integration, and the evolving role of consultants in corporate strategy. Notably, Capgemini Invent outlines how Agentic AI is set to revolutionize Germany’s public sector amidst mounting fiscal and workforce pressures. Meanwhile, McKinsey’s announcement of its ambitious AI-human parity target marks a significant shift in consulting operating models. Additionally, Oliver Wyman’s involvement in DB Cargo’s major restructuring highlights the ongoing need for robust turnaround expertise in challenging markets.Inside, you’ll also find coverage on:- Accenture’s innovation push in the Middle East- The evolving risk landscape of unverified AI, flagged by a former PwC consultant- Simon-Kucher’s move to modernize its business travel and sustainability programs**Also in this issue:**- Oliver Wyman: Restructuring experts as corporate lifelines- Accenture opens innovation center in Riyadh- Simon-Kucher partners with Navan for global travel overhaul- PwC ex-consultant’s warning on unchecked AI reliance

This week’s episode features several developments that should be top-of-mind for management consultants seeking to stay ahead in a shifting industry landscape. Notably, Turned Around by Excelliance is scaling up with new partners and an ambitious investment strategy, highlighting a new model for hands-on restructuring. Meanwhile, McKinsey’s divestment of MIO Partners signals a strategic shift at one of the industry’s biggest names. Additionally, PwC’s Strategy& forecasts a $3.1 trillion transformation in the global food market, underscoring opportunities in health, sustainability, and tech-driven supply chains.Stay informed on these stories and more to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving consulting market.- Deloitte names Germar Schröder to lead its Defense, Security & Justice sector  - Oliver Wyman highlights how generative AI is driving value in insurance  - PwC research reveals a 56% salary premium for workers with AI skills  - Major consultancies reveal what it takes to craft the perfect CV

This week, we unpack how consulting giants are adapting to AI’s rapid evolution. We discuss KPMG’s warning on Europe’s lag in AI adoption, the Big Four’s urgent changes to junior staff training, and Deloitte’s findings on why scaling AI remains a challenge. Plus, strategic moves at EY-Parthenon and Oliver Wyman signal where the industry is heading next.

This episode offers an essential briefing on pivotal trends shaping our sector. Roland Berger’s latest study signals a turning point for Europe’s economic competitiveness, highlighting both progress and urgent reform needs. In parallel, KPMG reports that AI is rapidly transforming HR from a supporting to a strategic partner. Meanwhile, Deloitte’s research on German automotive buyers reveals a sharp shift towards price sensitivity and changing brand loyalties.Also in this issue:- Capgemini finds companies shifting from AI hype to practical deployment, yet integration challenges remain.- PwC reports weak AI returns among CEOs, underscoring the need for more strategic investment.- Accenture warns of a widening perception gap on AI readiness between leadership and employees.Subscribe to stay informed to anticipate how these developments impact client priorities, consulting offerings, and internal capabilities.

This week’s episoe gathers the most significant developments shaping the consulting landscape in Central Europe and beyond. For management consultants, three items are especially pertinent: Horváth’s launch of evolvens signals a sharper focus on hands-on operational support for digital transformation projects; BCG’s latest research highlights how German companies are shifting from simple layoffs to strategic restructuring; and Capgemini’s appointment of AI strategist Lila Tretikov to its board underscores the rising importance of artificial intelligence in the sector.We encourage you to read on for these and other updates that could impact our approach to client engagements and competitive positioning.Also in this episode:- Roland Berger warns German firms are unprepared for imminent workforce reductions.- Capgemini Invent names Volker Darius as global CEO, emphasizing AI-driven business reinvention.- McKinsey urges German industries to prioritize geopolitics, AI, and leadership reforms for growth.- BCG promotes ten new partners in Central Europe to strengthen leadership across key markets.

In this episode, we highlight Horváth’s acquisition of Studicon and the launch of its Horváth.AI brand, underscoring the race to expand AI service offerings. Meanwhile, a Lünendonk study reveals Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini and PwC driving a robust German AI boom amidst wider IT sector stagnation - a clear signal that advanced tech expertise is now a decisive market differentiator. Additionally, Germany’s consulting sector has seen its first decline in average daily rates, a development with direct implications for project pricing, resourcing, and profitability.Don’t miss these further relevant headlines:- Simon-Kucher appoints Patricia Faur to lead its new AI-focused SKAI Lab  - Capgemini sees agentic AI transforming enterprise data platforms  - PwC forecasts German machinery sector slump to persist into 2026  - BDU reports IT consulting faces sharper fee declines than strategy consulting 

Hey! So this week we’re covering the BDU Beratertag. McKinsey report that entry salaries are stagnating. Accenture deploys ChatGPT to all its employees and Roland Berger helps you buy a brewery. Happy reading!This episode dives into how AI is upending consulting careers, with McKinsey reporting salary stagnation and Accenture reinventing its model around enterprise AI. We also examine Simon Kucher’s push for German insurers to adopt AI, and what these shifts mean for the future workforce and client expectations. Stay tuned for expert analysis and actionable insights.

This week’s issue spotlights industry moves and trends shaping the competitive landscape for management consultancies. Notably, Capgemini is calling for sectors such as aviation and MedTech to fast-track digital transformation by emulating the automotive industry’s AI and automation successes. Meanwhile, McKinsey’s latest report warns that leadership gaps—not technology—are hindering AI adoption in Europe, underscoring the urgency for consultants to guide clients through organizational change. Finally, Roland Berger’s new restructuring joint venture signals intensified competition in the crisis management segment, as firms seek to bolster their turnaround capabilities.Also in this issue:- Deloitte mandates AI skills for all staff, with a major investment in training and technology.- BCG finds global executives see AI agents as workplace “colleagues,” prompting new management models.- PwC says outdated leadership is blocking German AI progress despite employee openness.- EY-Parthenon appoints four new partners in Europe to strengthen sector expertise.

This issue is especially relevant as the consulting landscape faces mounting headwinds and rapid technological change. We spotlight Capgemini’s pivotal stance on program management as a strategic enabler for digital transformation in the energy sector, an area seeing growing demand for consulting expertise. Also, new data confirms a sharper downturn in the German consulting job market heading into 2025—valuable insight for workforce planning and talent strategies. Finally, BCG’s latest study details five seismic shifts in the global automotive sector, with implications for clients and consultants alike as electrification and digital sales reshape the market.Further news items not to miss:- Kearney appoints new partners to lead in AI, aerospace, and defense sectors.- Capgemini highlights agentic AI’s emerging impact on public sector digital transformation.- PwC calls for a fundamental overhaul of Germany’s defense system architecture.- McKinsey’s involvement in large-scale job cuts at ThyssenKrupp sparks criticism over operational risks.

This week, we explore the tectonic shifts hitting the consulting world, driven by technological upheaval and market pressures.We look at how former McKinsey consultants are training AI models to automate consulting tasks, signaling major changes for the industry. Even McKinsey is getting in on the act, testing its own tool, "Lilli," to streamline research and planning. This automation trend is intensifying with Capgemini Invent appointing Christoph Bornschein to a new global role focused on driving initiatives using agentic AI systems. Capgemini is also partnering with Siemens to deepen ties in digital manufacturing, developing AI-native solutions using orchestrated AI agents.But while AI looms large, we hear about the pressures facing human consultants: Reports from Germany reveal that Roland Berger consultants are facing tight market conditions, long hours, and finding their pay, around 6,800 euros a month, insufficient for the workload and fierce competition.Meanwhile, consultancies highlight massive economic trends: McKinsey projects that increased investment in Deep-Tech could generate up to one million new jobs in Europe by 2030, potentially lifting the sector's value to one trillion dollars. We also review PwC’s finding that electric mobility is now mainstream, with over 20 percent of new cars registered globally being electric vehicles.Finally, we cover urgent operational advice from KPMG, which released a roadmap for German data centers calling for an overhaul of cooling, waste heat utilization, and renewable energy strategies. Plus, we explore a surprising economic success story: the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) found that the Cologne Carnival's economic impact surged 40% since 2019 to 850 million euros, securing 6,500 jobs despite rising costs and a broader economic slowdown

Join us as we unpack Capgemini’s recruitment of a former Bundestag member for digital strategy, analyze growing client demand for AI-driven customs solutions with PWC, and explore Accenture and DFKI’s latest insights on generative AI in software engineering. We’ll also touch on Germany’s sluggish consulting market and why insurers are struggling to keep pace with digital transformation. Essential listening for consultants aiming to stay ahead in an industry at a crossroads.

This week’s issue spotlights critical shifts and emerging risks in the consulting landscape—essential reading for anyone advising clients at the intersection of strategy, operations, and technology. Notably, Oliver Wyman’s scathing audit of DB Cargo’s restructuring injects new urgency into leadership and turnaround mandates. Meanwhile, Simon Kucher’s survey reveals that 70% of German industrial firms are moving investments abroad, underlining urgent competitiveness challenges. Finally, McKinsey’s latest analysis highlights how U.S. productivity is surging ahead of Germany, raising the stakes for transformation and labor markets in Europe.Further industry developments you should not miss:- Capgemini details actionable strategies for AI portfolio management and scalability- The German consulting climate stagnates, but AI remains a key innovation driver- Roland Berger calls for sweeping reforms to strengthen health systems worldwide- McKinsey warns of a historic global economic transformation driven by geopolitics and technology

Welcome to this week’s issue, where we spotlight the trends and developments shaping the management consultancy landscape. This edition is essential reading for anyone looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Notable highlights include Kearney’s warning on AI shopping agents disrupting retail models, Deloitte’s landmark partnership with Anthropic to scale compliant AI across regulated sectors, and PwC’s innovative use of gaming culture to transform recruitment and employer branding. Each story underscores shifting client expectations and the urgent need for consultancies to adapt both internally and in client engagements.Also in this issue:- KPMG Germany launches a sales performance newsletter aiming to support sales leaders through market complexity.- BCG’s recruitment of a music student highlights the increasing value placed on diverse talent pipelines.- Deloitte’s survey reveals deepening pessimism among German manufacturing executives amid looming job cuts.- Insights on how AI-driven change is accelerating across both HR and sales functions.

This week’s newsletter brings together must-read developments shaping the consulting landscape. Colleagues should pay special attention to BCG’s bullish outlook on the US economy and AI-driven growth, KPMG’s global CEO survey revealing record investments in artificial intelligence and talent despite ongoing uncertainty, and Deloitte’s refund to the Australian government after an AI-generated report contained significant errors—underscoring the risks and responsibilities when deploying AI for clients. These stories spotlight the rapidly evolving opportunities and pitfalls in digital transformation, economic strategy, and ethics, all core to our competitive positioning.Other relevant headlines this week:- Capgemini urges public agencies to adopt a strategic ‘compass’ for transformation beyond digitalization.- Accenture unveils advanced AI solutions to counter increasingly complex cyber risks.- Capgemini study reports rising confidence in female leadership, but warns about persistent gender biases in AI.- KPMG CEOs express optimism about meeting sustainability targets via technology, but cite competition for AI talent as a key concern.

This week, we explore how consulting giants are doubling down on AI - from Accenture’s acquisition of Aidemy and sweeping workforce changes, to McKinsey’s in-house generative AI system. We also spotlight KPMG’s ERP leadership shift and what it means for end-to-end consulting solutions. Plus, we discuss the Big Four’s hiring surge in Luxembourg and the rising pressure on banks from fintechs. Tune in for your essential guide to the trends shaping tomorrow’s consulting industry.

This week on the Consulting Industry Briefing, we unpack BCG’s academic leap into AI research, probe into the role of top consultancies during Germany’s pandemic response, and review fresh strategies for HR and talent retention. Plus, hear how Deloitte is helping cities go digital and why McKinsey, BCG, and Bain remain at the top of Germany’s consulting game. Stay tuned for actionable insights and the week’s must-read headlines.Additionally, you’ll find coverage on these highly relevant stories:- McKinsey, BCG, Bain top German consultancy rankings- BCG: AI reshapes trade negotiations- Deloitte and KOBIL launch secure city SuperApp for German municipalities- Deutsche Bahn faces backlash over return of Oliver Wyman alumnus Dirk Rompf

Welcome to this week's edition of our consulting industry newsletter. This issue is packed with crucial insights that will enhance your understanding of emerging trends and strategic shifts in our field.Firstly, don't miss the strategic collaboration between Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and German industry leaders on the advancement of Deep Tech. With a projected global value of €8 trillion by 2030, this push outlines a significant opportunity for consultancies involved in high-tech landscapes.Furthermore, explore how alumni from Deloitte, BCG, and McKinsey are investing in German family businesses. This trend is reshaping traditional career paths, offering a unique growth avenue that combines leadership with entrepreneurial spirit.Lastly, Boston Consulting Group's report on climate protection strategies unveils how firms are increasingly viewing these measures as profitable ventures. Understanding these dynamics could be vital as sustainability becomes a cornerstone of corporate strategies.Here are four additional stories we’ve highlighted for their relevance:Inverto Opens New Office in Berlin: A significant expansion move by BCG’s subsidiary, focusing on healthcare procurement and supply chain expertise.McKinsey Highlights $106 Trillion Infrastructure Gap: A critical analysis of global infrastructure demands, with potential consulting opportunities in public-private partnerships.Panel discussion at IAA between VW, McKinsey and Deutsche Telekom: A look at Volkswagen's strategic realignment towards affordable electric vehicles and its implications on automotive consulting.Capgemini's Hydrogen Storage Exploration: An innovative study into sustainable energy solutions, showcasing advancements in metal hydride hydrogen storage.

In this week’s episode, we dive into the groundbreaking developments shaping the consulting landscape. Discover how Deloitte's new AI hub in India is setting the stage for scalable AI solutions, explore McKinsey's strategic insights into transforming IT systems for growth, and learn about KPMG Clara's cutting-edge audit enhancements with AI. Plus, get the latest on leadership changes at Capgemini Invent and BCG's revelations on the economic benefits of electric vehicles. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve in consulting innovation.Firstly, Deloitte's new AI hub in India marks a substantial commitment to advancing AI capabilities, offering pivotal insights into scaling AI operations — a vital consideration for any consultancy aiming to leverage AI for competitive advantage.Secondly, McKinsey Germany's latest *Akzente* issue delves into transformative growth, focusing on modernizing IT systems and strategic AI use. This could offer valuable guidance for those of us helping clients in consumer sectors navigate the complexities of digital transformation.Lastly, KPMG's Clara platform is revolutionizing audits through AI and automation, enhancing both efficiency and data transparency. This innovation could reshape how we approach audit services and client engagements.Stay informed and inspired with these relevant reads:- Capgemini Invent Names Thilo Zelt New Head- Empathy Crucial for Successful Consulting- McKinsey's Rödder Joins Borussia Dortmund Team- BCG: Electric Cars Cheaper Than Combustion Vehicles

This week's podcast dives into pivotal changes within the consulting industry, spotlighting key personnel shifts and strategic innovations. We explore Markus Zimmermann's return to Oliver Wyman, Capgemini's AI-driven transformations, and Julie Sweet's critical insights on AI project pitfalls. Additionally, we discuss Accenture's acquisition of NeuraFlash, enhancing their AI offerings, and analyze Europe's evolving defense and automotive landscapes. Join us for an in-depth look at these developments shaping the future of consulting.Additionally, don't miss these relevant news items:Accenture Acquires NeuraFlash to Enhance AI Services McKinsey's Analysis on Europe's Defense Investment SurgeRoland Berger Report: Financial Struggles of German HospitalsPwC's Autonomous Vehicles in German Public Transit

In this week's episode, we explore transformative forces in the consultancy world. From a deep dive into AI's disruptive potential to start-ups taking on industry giants like McKinsey, our discussions capture the evolving dynamics of our profession. We also provide strategic insights into handling US tariffs and showcase significant shifts within German banking towards digital experiences. Tune in to discover how these developments could influence our consultancy strategies and client engagements.Some highlight: Start-Ups vs. McKinsey: Discover how AI-driven start-ups are redefining consulting models, creating competitive pressures for established firms like McKinsey.Simon-Kucher on US Tariffs: Gain valuable insights from Simon-Kucher on handling the challenging landscape of US tariffs. Arthur D. Little's Partnership in Syria: A strategic agreement with the Syrian Ministry exemplifies global consulting outreach.

In this week’s episode, we delve into the latest strategic moves within the consulting sector. From the Big Four's exploration of new industries to Accenture's landmark cybersecurity acquisition, discover how traditional consultancy is evolving. We also examine the shifting paradigms of creativity and strategy, highlighting key takeaways for future-proofing our approach in an increasingly complex market.Also of interest:- Deloitte Switzerland Restructures Amid UK Pressure- McKinsey studies effective team-value management in European football- PwC launches AI Lab for Public Sector- KPMG's geo-analysis tool for optimizing business location strategies.

This week's episode delves into the strategic maneuvers and emerging trends shaping the consultancy industry. From groundbreaking acquisitions to innovative hiring practices, we explore the critical stories you need to know. Our expert analysis provides valuable insights into adapting to the dynamic market environment, addressing challenges like the German IT professional shortage and the transformative potential of AI in aviation. Tune in to stay informed and ahead in your consultancy career.

In this week’s episode, we dive into how former McKinsey consultants are quietly dominating Germany’s corporate leadership — nearly one-third of DAX supervisory boards now have consulting backgrounds. We also explore why German consulting firms are using AI to deliver client value rather than internal efficiency — and how that contrasts with broader business trends. Plus, Kearney reinforces its presence in Germany and Switzerland with three strategic leadership appointments.Also in this episode:PwC’s leadership shift in restructuringDeloitte’s AI leap with SAP JouleAccenture’s Snorkel AI investmentAnd what Simon-Kucher’s health report says about AI and consumer trustWhether you're in the boardroom or the bullpen, these are the moves shaping the future of consulting.

This week, we cover OpenAI’s push into the traditional consulting space, and how one strategy firm replaced 90% of its consultants with AI agents. Plus: leadership shifts at RTL and zeb, big moves from Deloitte, Rödl, and WTS, and fresh insights from McKinsey, BCG, PwC, Capgemini, Accenture, and more. All the essential updates from the world of management consulting—in just a few minutes.