S24E1: The Hottest Consulting Sectors to Target in 2026

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McKinsey is making 12% more hires this year than last. But the jobs aren't going to the same profile of candidate.

Energy and utilities is projected to grow 11% in 2026 – one of the least sexy practices in consulting, and one of the hottest right now. Healthcare, private equity, and consumer/retail are all shifting too.

If you're aiming at the wrong sector or the wrong skill set, you're competing for the smallest slice of the market.

Namaan breaks down where the hiring is concentrated, which skills firms are paying a premium for, and why specialists are starting to out-hire generalists.

Resources:

• If you want to know exactly which firms are hiring hardest in the sectors Namaan covers, see our 2026 sector rankings before you decide
• If you are serious about breaking into consulting in 2026, Black Belt pairs you with an expert coach to guide you through recruiting

Consulting Deadlines:

• McKinsey, Bain, and BCG deadlines hit August 11 – 13 (and more are coming) – get interview-ready fast with Black Belt

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