McKinsey's newest partners share their best advice for climbing the ranks at the consulting firm
Business Insider
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
McKinsey & Company’s newest partner class highlights the challenges and strategies for climbing the ranks at one of the world’s most competitive consulting firms. With just 224 new partners in 2023—a sharp decline from the pandemic-fueled boom of 2022—this year’s class represents a diverse group of professionals from over 65 cities, 45 countries, and speaking more than 40 languages. Four members of this elite group shared their insights on success, emphasizing the importance of relationships, strategic focus, and personal growth.
One key takeaway is the role of senior sponsors in advancing careers. Jen Malandra, a partner based in Boston, explained how her passion for client transformation projects caught the attention of senior leaders, leading to long-term mentorship and support. Similarly, Witold Wdziekonski, who works in financial planning and analysis, credits his success to building trust through mission-critical contributions during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Another critical factor is balancing individual achievements with team-building. Paul Beaumont, a data science leader based in Singapore, highlighted the shift from focusing on personal performance to fostering environments where others can thrive. This approach not only drives client impact but also helps create self-sustaining systems that leave a lasting legacy.
Franziska Kraken, who became a partner in nine years after starting as an intern, advised aspiring consultants to focus on finding their niche—both in terms of clients and teams—and maintaining work-life balance. She stressed the importance of enjoying the journey, as McKinsey’s path to partnership is a
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Originally published on Business Insider on 3/2/2026