Strategic Rationale and Justification
The revised category framework aligns Consulting Magazine’s Rising Stars awards with a broader spectrum of today’s management-consulting landscape, spotlighting both core disciplines and emerging imperatives. By augmenting traditional strategy, transformation, and operational excellence with Analytics & AI Innovation, Technology & Digital Consulting, and Technology & Innovation, we will recognize the forces reshaping client value. Adding ESG & Sustainability and Pro Bono & Social Impact underscores the profession’s evolving commitment to ethical governance and community outcomes. Finally, dedicated categories for Change Management, People & Culture, Global & Cross-Border, Thought Leadership, and Industry-Specialist Consulting ensure that specialists across people, places, and intellectual capital receive the spotlight they deserve.
2026 Category Titles: Individual Excellence in –
- Strategy & Transformation
- Technology & Digital Consulting
- Analytics & AI Innovation
- Operational & Process Consulting
- Leadership & Culture
- Pro Bono & Social Impact
- ESG & Sustainability
- Global & Cross-Border Consulting
- Thought Leadership & Intellectual Capital
- Industry-Specialization
- Cybersecurity & Risk Technology
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Data Ethics & Responsible AI
2026 Category Titles: FIRM Excellence in –
- Recruiting & Retention Programs
- Mentoring & Enrichment Programs