McKinsey vs Strategy& (PwC): Which Strategy Firm?
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: McKinsey vs Strategy&
9/10
Interview Difficulty
7/10
5/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
10/10
Compensation
7/10
10/10
Prestige
6/10
10/10
Exit Opportunities
7/10
McKinseyStrategy&
Quick Summary
Both McKinsey & Company and PwC Strategy& are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. McKinsey is known for career optionality maximizers, while Strategy& excels at deals and transformation interest. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: McKinsey vs Strategy&
| Category | McKinsey | Strategy& |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage | Consulting gold standard since 1926 | Former Booz & Company, PwC since 2014 |
| Independence | Pure-play strategy consulting | Part of PwC network (audit, tax conflicts) |
| Interview Process | Interviewer-led, PEI, Solve | Candidate-led, fit-focused |
| Compensation | Industry-leading pay | 15-20% below McKinsey |
| Deals Focus | Balanced portfolio | Strong in deals strategy |
| Global Reach | Consistent global brand | Quality varies by geography |
Key Takeaways
- Heritage: McKinsey has stronger independent legacy
- Independence: McKinsey can serve more clients freely
- Interview Process: Different prep approaches needed
- Compensation: McKinsey pays significantly more
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose McKinsey if you...
- ✓Career optionality maximizers
- ✓Those wanting strongest brand
- ✓Global career aspirations
Choose Strategy& if you...
- ✓Deals and transformation interest
- ✓Those leveraging PwC network
- ✓Specific Strategy& office/team appeal
Interview Process Comparison
McKinsey Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Strategy& Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both McKinsey and Strategy&
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Is Strategy& (PwC) as good as McKinsey?
No. Strategy& is a respected strategy practice but sits below MBB in prestige, compensation, and exit opportunities. The Booz heritage helps, but PwC integration changed the firm.
How does Strategy& compensation compare to McKinsey?
Strategy& pays roughly 15-20% less than McKinsey at all levels. The gap is consistent from entry through partner. Total compensation difference is meaningful over a career.
What happened to Booz & Company?
Booz & Company split in 2008: government practice became Booz Allen Hamilton (public), commercial practice became Booz & Company, then was acquired by PwC in 2014 and rebranded as Strategy&.
Can I move from Strategy& to McKinsey?
Possible but challenging. Strong Strategy& performers can lateral to MBB, but you'll compete against direct applicants. Having the Big 4 strategy background helps but doesn't guarantee success.