Black consultants

McKinsey is committed to being the preeminent place for world class black leaders. This commitment stretches back decades. In 1991, black consultants came together to create the BCSS—a network for black client service staff. We now have a vibrant BCSS community of more than 100 professionals.

Impact
BCSS has a history of contributing to important projects such as Rebuilding LA (Los Angeles), developing the strategy for the United Negro College Fund, and improving economic conditions in sub-Saharan Africa.

Acha Leke, a partner in the Johannesburg office, joined McKinsey in Atlanta after completing a Ph.D. in electrical engineering at Stanford University. His goal was to focus on two areas of interest: telecommunications and Africa. He spent his first couple of years doing predominantly telecom work across a wide variety of clients. He then transferred to Johannesburg to help drive McKinsey's reach across sub-Saharan Africa.

"We are now recognized as the leading consulting firm in the region and are playing an important role in supporting the economic rebirth of the continent," says Acha.

Choice
McKinsey offers many opportunities for BCSS to pursue their passions. Maria Gordian, a New York-based partner, reflects on the choices available: "My approach has always been to gain a set of skills, enjoy my life, and have fun. I've always felt that there are many opportunities out there to explore. That's why, after 10 months in the New York office, I joined colleagues from around the world in Johannesburg to support South Africa in making the transition from apartheid to democracy. After my time in Johannesburg, I spent 6 months in Italy, and years later, I spent 6 months in London. I'm now very involved in the broader issues of health care and policy."

Networking with BCSS colleagues and alumni
The BCSS community is one place for black professionals to connect with people who can help them in navigating the firm or guiding their professional development. Every year, the BCSS organization convenes to focus on topics most relevant to their professional development and community interests. Exposure to an ever-growing cadre of senior black professionals and other firm leaders provides BCSS with role models and mentors. Other networking opportunities include an annual orientation program for new hires prior to joining the firm.

A perspective from a participant of a recent program:  "I didn't know what to expect going into it, but I left the program feeling like McKinsey truly is the right place for me. In addition to the training aspect of the program, it was great to meet the other new BCSS  hires from other offices. It felt like a real family of truly special individuals."

BCSS participants also have access to an internal Web site that serves as an on-line forum for professional development tools and advice.

Events with our black alumni, now numbering in the hundreds, also give BCSS members broader connections and role models to help them develop and grow. A number of BCSS alumni have left the firm to lead impressive organizations, including the Federal Reserve Board, an energy company in Trinidad, and a division of GE.