Q: When are the Rising Stars of the Profession nominations open?

A: The nomination platform will be open until January 5, 2026. 

---

Q: What is the Rising Stars of the Profession award?

A: It’s Consulting magazine's annual recognition of professionals under the age of 36. Firms and clients nominate consultants under the age of 36 who’ve made the biggest impact. Consulting Magazine’s judging panel chooses winners among numerous categories outlined below: Note there is no age restriction for Firm categories.

• 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

• Recruiting & Retention Programs
• Mentoring & Enrichment Programs

---

Q: Who is eligible to be a Rising Star of the Profession?

A: Any consultant who is under the age of 36 as of December 31, 2025. For Team & Firm categories, there is no age restriction.

---

Q: What does the editorial judging committee look for in a nomination?

A: Judges are looking for full and complete descriptions that adequately address each question as well as measurable metrics and quantifiable results. Specifics are important. That means, for example, that “cost savings and revenue generation” isn’t nearly as impactful as “generated $25 million in revenue for a client” or “saved the client or firm $5 million.”

---

Q: How strict are the word limits found in the nomination form?

A: Pretty strict, although slightly over is OK. However, the limits are there for a reason and going way over the limits won’t help your nominee’s chances. Be concise and to the point as much as possible. We typically get between 200 and 300 nominations for a limited number of honorees, so make your nomination stand out. The word count for each question varies words for individual categories for firm categories.

---

Q: Is it for U.S.-based consultants only?

A: No, the Rising Stars of the Profession is a global award. However, we do expect honorees to attend the awards ceremony in America if selected as an honoree.

---

Q: Is there a cost to participate?

A: There is no fee to submit a nomination. However, there are fees associated with tables and sponsorships, and honorees are expected to attend the event to accept their award.

---

Q: What’s the best way for me to receive alerts and stay on top of all Consulting Magazine awards?

A: To receive updates about Consulting Magazine awards, please email Fiona Sarnicki at fsarnicki@alm.com. 

---

Q: Can we submit more than one person from the firm?

A: Yes, but please limit it to 3-4.

Q: Can we nominate the same person from multiple accounts?

A: No, only one submission will be read per nominee.

Q: When will the honoree list be released?

A: The list will be released on February 6, 2026.

Q: How are the Rising Stars of the Profession recognized?

A: The Rising Stars of the Profession are recognized in a few ways: one, with an editorial feature showcasing achievements of each honoree. Two, honorees are recognized at a celebratory in-person awards in April 16, 2026 and various package options are available to help publicize their success. Three, highlighted on Consulting Magazine's LinkedIn page. 

Q: How can I make the most of being listed as an honoree?

A: Should you or your firm be listed for an award, there is an expectation that a representative will attend the awards ceremony to accept a trophy as part of the proceedings.  Note that these events are pay to attend and various promotional packages are available.  We also encourage you to share your achievement on social media, be sure to tag Consulting Magazine on LinkedIn @consulting magazine and on Twitter @Consulting_Mag.