Management consulting companies in California perform a crucial role in helping businesses optimize operations and enhance decision-making. These firms, ranging from small boutique agencies to large established players, provide services like strategic planning, digital transformation, and organizational change management. As technological advancements continue to reshape industries, the demand for specialized consulting services is expected to grow. Moreover, California's vibrant startup ecosystem provides a unique environment for consulting firms to innovate and adapt their offerings. Insights into market trends, competitor analysis, and expert guidance are essential elements driving value in this competitive sector.

The companies in this list represent a range of management consulting firms based in California, varying in size from fewer than 50 employees to several thousand. Founded between 1975 and 2018, these firms exhibit different specializations—including digital transformation, organizational strategy, and financial consulting. Their headquarters span key locations throughout California such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, demonstrating the state's pivotal role in shaping the consulting industry. With capabilities designed to address complex business challenges, each firm contributes uniquely to the dynamic consulting market.

Continue reading to discover details about California's top management consulting companies.

Top 19 Management Consulting Companies in California

1. Strategic Decisions Group (SDG)

• Website: sdg.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, Germany 40%, Canada 7%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: February 1999
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: strategic-decisions-group-sdg

Strategic Decisions Group (SDG) is a consulting firm based in Menlo Park, California, established in 1981. With a workforce of around 85 employees, SDG specializes in strategic management services, offering consulting in business strategy, portfolio management, risk analysis, and scenario planning. The firm serves a variety of industries, including energy, life sciences, technology, consumer products, aerospace, and engineering. SDG is known for its focus on decision quality, helping organizations enhance their decision-making capabilities through expert guidance and educational programs. They have worked with numerous global businesses, including 20 of Fortune's Global 100 clients, to navigate complex challenges and improve strategic outcomes. Their commitment to capability building and decision-making education has positioned them as a significant player in the management consulting space.

2. Prophet

• Website: prophet.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 64%, United Kingdom (UK) 18%, Germany 5%, Other 14%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), September 2019
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: prophet

Prophet is a consulting firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1992. With a workforce of approximately 748 employees, the firm specializes in growth and transformation strategies for businesses. Their services are designed to help clients navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth through various means, including identifying growth pathways, evolving business models, reimagining brands, and driving organizational transformation. Prophet serves a wide array of industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, healthcare, and technology, showcasing their ability to adapt to different market needs. The firm has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model. Their commitment to helping clients unlock uncommon growth is evident in their approach, which combines analytical rigor with creative problem-solving.

3. Avasant

• Website: avasant.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: El Segundo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 45%, United States (USA) 32%, Mexico 9%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: avasant

Avasant, founded in 2006 and based in El Segundo, California, is a consulting firm that specializes in management and digital transformation services. With a workforce of approximately 321 employees, Avasant offers a range of consulting solutions that include strategic sourcing, IT consulting, and artificial intelligence services. The firm serves a variety of industries such as aerospace and defense, healthcare, financial services, and technology, helping organizations enhance efficiency and competitiveness through optimized processes and technology strategies. Avasant also engages in research and data analysis, providing insights into market trends and emerging technologies. Their commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident through initiatives like the Avasant Foundation, which focuses on empowering communities and youth. Avasant's approach combines consulting with a strong emphasis on innovation and technology, making them a notable player in the management consulting space.

4. Blue Beyond Consulting

• Website: bluebeyondconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Castro Valley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bluebeyondconsulting

Blue Beyond Consulting, founded in 2006 and based in Castro Valley, California, is a consulting firm that specializes in enhancing organizational effectiveness, culture, talent management, and change management. With a team of around 61 employees, the firm serves a variety of clients, including Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and educational institutions. Their approach is centered on improving employee experiences and aligning organizational strategies with business goals. Blue Beyond Consulting offers a range of services, such as culture assessments, leadership training, and strategic communications planning. They have developed a reputation for their commitment to fostering high-performance cultures and effective change management practices. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that relies on its consulting services to drive growth.

5. Bpm LLP

• Website: bpm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, India 19%, Canada 2%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: bpmllp

BPM LLP, founded in 1986 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a consulting firm that specializes in assurance, advisory, tax, and wealth management services. With a workforce of approximately 1,760 employees, BPM caters to a variety of clients, including businesses and high-net-worth individuals. The firm is known for its tailored solutions that help clients navigate financial complexities and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. BPM's service offerings span numerous industries such as technology, financial services, life sciences, and nonprofit sectors. They have established a reputation for their proactive advice and commitment to client satisfaction, reflected in their high Net Promoter Score. As a certified B Corporation, BPM also emphasizes social responsibility and community engagement, further solidifying their role in the consulting industry.

6. DemandGen (now BDO Digital, Demand Generation Group)

• Website: demandgen.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Ramon, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: demandgen

DemandGen, now known as BDO Digital, Demand Generation Group, is a professional services firm based in San Ramon, California. Founded in 2007, the company specializes in providing a variety of services, including audit, tax, and advisory solutions. As part of BDO, they focus on delivering value to clients by addressing complex challenges across multiple industries. Their advisory services include management consulting, turnaround and restructuring, and M&A advisory, among others. This positions them as a significant player in the consulting industry, particularly in areas that require strategic insight and operational improvement. BDO Digital also emphasizes digital transformation, offering services in areas like data analytics and cybersecurity, which are increasingly relevant in today’s business environment.

7. eJAmerica

• Website: ejamerica.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 56%, India 28%, Mexico 8%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: ejamerica

eJAmerica, founded in 2016 and based in Irvine, California, is a consulting firm that specializes in management consulting and IT services. With a workforce of around 130 employees, the company provides tailored solutions across various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Their services range from strategy consulting to managed IT services, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation for their clients. eJAmerica has developed a strong reputation for its expertise in project management and technology implementation, helping organizations navigate complex challenges and optimize their operations. The firm also supports global expansion through its Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model, particularly in India and Mexico, allowing clients to establish efficient offshore operations. eJAmerica prides itself on its commitment to client satisfaction, boasting a track record of successful project delivery and a focus on creating value for its customers.

8. Senn Delaney, a Heidrick & Struggles company

• Website: senndelaney.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Huntington Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 49%, United States (USA) 33%, Singapore 18%
• Latest funding: December 1999
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: senn-delaney

Senn Delaney, a Heidrick & Struggles company, is a consulting firm based in Huntington Beach, California, specializing in organizational consulting. Founded in 1978, the firm has built a reputation for its focus on leadership development, culture shaping, and diversity and inclusion. Senn Delaney helps organizations enhance their performance by addressing leadership challenges and fostering a strong organizational culture. Their services are tailored to meet the needs of various industries, and they leverage proprietary insights and methodologies to drive meaningful change. As part of Heidrick & Struggles, Senn Delaney benefits from a robust network and extensive expertise in executive search and organizational consulting, further solidifying its position in the consulting sector.

9. NMS Consulting Inc.

• Website: nmsconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, Iraq 10%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nms-consulting-inc

NMS Consulting Inc., based in Beverly Hills, California, is a management consulting firm founded in 2018. The company specializes in providing tailored consulting services across various industries, focusing on business transformation, change management, and performance improvement. NMS Consulting serves a wide range of clients, from small and medium-sized enterprises to larger organizations, leveraging a global team of experts to deliver effective solutions. Their service offerings include business transformation, change management, cybersecurity, digital technology, marketing, mergers and acquisitions, and performance improvement, among others. The firm has expanded its reach internationally, with a presence in the United Kingdom and Iraq, and has recently opened offices in Nairobi and Izmir, reflecting its commitment to growth and innovation in the consulting industry.

10. Venture West Consulting

• Website: venturewestgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco Bay Area, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: venturewest

Venture West Consulting, established in 2017, is a consulting firm based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, they specialize in growth and strategy, complex change, and project execution. The firm partners with executives across various industries, including healthcare, technology, and financial services, to help them navigate challenges and implement effective solutions. Their services include strategic planning, change management, and program management, all aimed at delivering meaningful results. Venture West prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to ensure that strategies are not only developed but also executed successfully. Their focus on building long-term relationships and understanding client needs positions them as a relevant player in the management consulting sector.

11. HBSC Strategic Services, Inc.

• Website: hbsconsult.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brisbane, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 20%, India 20%, Colombia 20%, Other 40%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hbsc-inc.

HBSC Strategic Services, Inc., based in Brisbane, California, has been operational since 2002. This private consulting firm specializes in strategic and technology consulting, catering primarily to Fortune 500 companies and fast-growth startups. With a workforce of around 36 employees, HBSC offers a range of services including Digital Transformation, Enterprise Artificial Intelligence, and Interim CXO Services. Their focus is on helping organizations enhance operational efficiency and adapt to rapid changes in the market. The firm has demonstrated its capability through various successful engagements across industries such as Financial Services, Healthcare, High Tech, Retail, and Utilities. Their approach often involves providing interim executive leadership, which allows clients to maintain momentum during transitions or critical projects. HBSC's insights and methodologies are designed to empower organizations to leverage technology effectively and achieve sustainable growth.

12. The Trium Group

• Website: triumgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Canada 3%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-trium-group

The Trium Group, founded in 1998 and based in San Francisco, California, specializes in leadership development and organizational strategy. With a team of seasoned consultants and coaches, they focus on enhancing leadership effectiveness and team performance. Their services include executive coaching, team development, and strategic alignment, aimed at helping organizations navigate change and improve their internal dynamics. The firm has collaborated with a variety of clients, including well-known companies like Adobe, Workday, and Sephora, showcasing their ability to cater to both startups and established enterprises. The Trium Group's mission is to change the way business leaders think, reflecting their commitment to impactful consulting practices. They have not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

13. Concannon Business Consulting

• Website: concannonbc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 5%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: concannon-business-consulting

Concannon Business Consulting, founded in 2006 and based in Irvine, California, is a private consulting firm specializing in project management, business analysis, and organizational change management. With a team of around 39 employees, the firm has grown from its initial two partners to a robust group of consultants serving clients across various sectors, including automotive, financial, high-tech, hospitality, retail, and consumer packaged goods. Their approach is centered on delivering immediate project impact and value, with a mission focused on achieving 100% customer satisfaction. Concannon's services include private equity advisory, agile management, and strategy development, among others. They have also carved out niches in emerging areas such as telematics and autonomous vehicles, showcasing their ability to adapt to industry trends and client needs. Their commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience positions them as a relevant player in the management consulting field.

14. The Highlands Consulting Group LLC

• Website: highlandsconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sacramento, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-highlands-consulting-group-llc

The Highlands Consulting Group LLC, based in Sacramento, California, is a management consulting firm that has been operational since 2002. The company specializes in strategic, business, and IT consulting services, catering to both public and private sector clients. Their primary goal is to assist organizations in navigating changes and enhancing operational efficiency. With a focus on industries such as health care, social services, and transportation, Highlands Consulting has successfully completed numerous projects, earning a reputation for delivering tailored solutions that meet specific client needs. The firm prides itself on its high employee retention rate, which is indicative of a stable and knowledgeable workforce. Their consultants bring a wealth of experience from global consultancies, ensuring that clients receive insightful and effective management consulting services. The firm has also been recognized for its community involvement, contributing to various charitable organizations and initiatives.

15. Cask NX

• Website: casknx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: cask-nx

Cask NX, LLC is an IT consulting firm based in San Diego, California, founded in 2011. With a workforce of approximately 317 employees, the company specializes in digital transformation solutions, offering services that include strategy development, IT asset management, and application development. Cask NX primarily caters to government agencies, healthcare organizations, and financial services firms, focusing on streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. Their service offerings are structured around four main areas: envisioning strategic roadmaps, implementing IT solutions, developing applications, and managing and optimizing existing platforms. Cask NX positions itself as a partner in navigating the complexities of digital transformation, particularly through the ServiceNow platform, which they leverage to help clients achieve operational excellence and future-proof their business models.

16. WGA Consulting, LLC

• Website: wgaconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Torrance, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Peru 11%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wga-consulting-llc

WGA Consulting, LLC is a management consulting firm based in Torrance, California, founded in 2000. The company specializes in management, strategy, and AI consulting services, catering primarily to large businesses across various sectors. WGA Consulting is recognized for its ethical approach and commitment to delivering impactful results. The firm operates in multiple industries, including aerospace and defense, automotive, consumer goods, industrial manufacturing, entertainment, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Their service offerings include business transformation, ESG consulting, and project staffing, among others. WGA Consulting has developed innovative tools like WGA360™, a subscription-based consulting service designed to help companies strategize for future success. With a workforce that spans the United States, Peru, and the United Kingdom, WGA Consulting demonstrates a global reach and a strong presence in the consulting market.

17. Bainbridge

• Website: bainbridge.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bainbridge

Bainbridge is a consulting firm based in San Diego, California, founded in 1975. The company specializes in strategic and capital advisory services, offering a range of solutions that include business strategy, market research, and financial strategy. Bainbridge serves a broad clientele, including business owners, investors, and corporations, leveraging its expertise to help clients navigate complex business challenges. The firm has a notable track record, having assisted over 57,000 owners and closed more than 1,000 deals across 260 industries. Bainbridge employs advanced data analytics and machine learning to provide actionable insights, enabling clients to make informed decisions and drive growth. Their services extend to M&A expertise, customer intelligence, and operational impact, making them a significant player in the management consulting field.

18. MLC and Associates

• Website: mlchq.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Costa Mesa, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 68%, United States (USA) 32%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mlc-%26-associates-inc

MLC and Associates, also known as MLC Management Consulting, Inc., is a private consulting firm based in Costa Mesa, California. Founded in 1985, the company has built a reputation for providing tailored business management solutions. Their services include business continuity planning, digital transformation, process improvement, and leadership development. MLC has worked with a variety of clients, helping them navigate operational challenges and enhance performance. The firm has a notable presence in both the United States and India, with a significant portion of its workforce based in India. MLC's documentation and methodologies have been recognized by organizations such as FEMA, underscoring their commitment to quality and effectiveness in their consulting practices. With a focus on measurable outcomes and client partnerships, MLC aims to empower organizations to achieve greater efficiency and resilience in a rapidly changing business environment.

19. Value Management Strategies, Inc.

• Website: vms-inc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Marcos, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: value-management-strategies-inc

Value Management Strategies, Inc. (VMS) is a consulting firm based in San Marcos, California, established in 1990. With a team of approximately 32 employees, VMS focuses on value management and organizational development, offering a range of services that include value engineering, organizational change, and training programs. The firm has worked with clients from various sectors, demonstrating its ability to apply its expertise broadly. VMS is recognized for its innovative approach to value measurement and has developed proprietary tools to facilitate complex decision-making. Their commitment to enhancing organizational performance is reflected in their extensive training offerings, which aim to equip clients with the skills necessary to improve their value propositions. VMS has also been involved in significant projects, including collaborations with public and private organizations, showcasing their relevance in the consulting industry.

Management Consulting Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Strategic Decisions Group (SDG)	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1981	Corporate
Prophet	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	1992	Private
Avasant	El Segundo, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2006	Private
Blue Beyond Consulting	Castro Valley, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2006	Private
Bpm LLP	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1986	Private
DemandGen (now BDO Digital, Demand Generation Group)	San Ramon, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Private
eJAmerica	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2016	Private
Senn Delaney, a Heidrick & Struggles company	Huntington Beach, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1978	Corporate
NMS Consulting Inc.	Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2018	Private
Venture West Consulting	San Francisco Bay Area, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2017	Private
HBSC Strategic Services, Inc.	Brisbane, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2002	Private
The Trium Group	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1998	Private
Concannon Business Consulting	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2006	Private
The Highlands Consulting Group LLC	Sacramento, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2002	Private
Cask NX	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2011	Private
WGA Consulting, LLC	Torrance, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2000	Private
Bainbridge	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1975	Private
MLC and Associates	Costa Mesa, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1985	Private
Value Management Strategies, Inc.	San Marcos, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1990	Private

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