Management consulting companies in Illinois provide guidance to organizations seeking to improve operations, strategy, and performance. The industry comprises a mix of established firms and innovative startups, offering services such as financial advisory, digital transformation, and leadership training. With the rapid pace of technological advancement, consulting services are increasingly focusing on integrating data analytics and sustainability practices. Companies are adapting to changing market conditions, emphasizing client relationships and tailored solutions. The growth in sectors like healthcare, technology, and manufacturing indicates a robust future, where consultants play a pivotal role in navigating complex challenges.

This list of top management consulting companies in Illinois includes a variety of firms ranging in size from small teams to large organizations. Founded between 1910 and 2019, these firms are primarily headquartered in Chicago, showcasing their strategic location in a bustling business hub. Many companies cater to specific industries, offering specialized services in areas such as healthcare, technology, and finance. With a significant number of employees working within each firm, these organizations are equipped to meet the needs of numerous clients across diverse sectors.

Continue reading to explore Illinois' top management consulting companies.

Top 22 Management Consulting Companies in Illinois

1. Kearney

• Website: kearney.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 17%, India 16%, United Arab Emirates 15%, Other 52%
• Founded year: 1926
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: a-t--kearney

Kearney is a management consulting firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1926. With a workforce of approximately 8,212 employees, Kearney provides a wide array of consulting services aimed at helping businesses tackle operational challenges and enhance performance. The firm specializes in areas such as digital analytics, leadership development, and sustainability solutions. Kearney serves clients across various industries, including aerospace and defense, automotive, chemicals, consumer and retail, energy, financial services, healthcare, and technology. The firm is known for its analytical approach and commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients. Kearney also engages in thought leadership, producing insights and reports that contribute to industry knowledge and trends.

2. Crowe

• Website: crowe.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, India 7%, Other 20%
• Latest funding: $200.0M, October 2014
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: crowe

Crowe is a prominent consulting and accounting firm based in Chicago, Illinois, established in 1961. With over 9,000 employees, Crowe Global offers a comprehensive suite of professional services, including audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory. The firm serves a wide array of clients, from public entities to private businesses, assisting them in overcoming financial and operational challenges. Crowe's expertise spans multiple industries, such as healthcare, financial services, and technology, allowing them to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients. The firm has a significant presence in the United States, with 73% of its workforce located there, and maintains a global footprint through its network of member firms. Crowe has also received substantial funding, amounting to $200 million in 2014, which supports its growth and service expansion efforts.

3. Sikich

• Website: sikich.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $250.0M, May 2024
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: sikich

Sikich is a professional services firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1982. With approximately 2,268 employees, Sikich specializes in technology-enabled solutions that include accounting, advisory, and managed services. The firm serves a wide array of clients, from corporations to not-for-profits, helping them enhance performance and achieve strategic objectives. Sikich's service offerings include business transformation, cybersecurity, and governance, risk, and compliance, showcasing their expertise in critical areas of management consulting. Recently, Sikich secured $250 million in funding, which underscores their growth strategy and commitment to expanding their service capabilities. This investment positions them to further innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of their clients across various industries.

4. Navigant Consulting Inc.

• Website: navigant.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Canada 10%
• Latest funding: $1.1B, August 2019
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: gde-inc.

Navigant Consulting Inc., now known as Guidehouse, is a professional services firm based in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1999, the company specializes in consulting services tailored to the healthcare, energy, and financial services sectors. Navigant has built a reputation for helping clients navigate complex regulatory challenges and achieve transformational change. Their service offerings include strategic, financial, operational, and technology consulting, as well as risk management and compliance solutions. The firm has a strong emphasis on addressing the needs of clients facing significant legal and regulatory pressures. In August 2019, Navigant received $1.1 billion in funding, which underscores its growth trajectory and commitment to enhancing its consulting capabilities. With a workforce primarily located in the United States, Navigant is well-positioned to serve clients in high-stakes environments.

5. Bdo Usa, LLP

• Website: bdo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1910
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: bdo-usa-llp

BDO USA, LLP, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an established accounting and consulting firm that has been operational since 1910. The firm provides a wide array of professional services, including audit, tax, and advisory. BDO USA specializes in helping businesses and organizations tackle financial challenges and enhance operational efficiency. Their advisory services cover critical areas such as management consulting, turnaround and restructuring, and M&A advisory, making them a valuable resource for companies seeking strategic guidance. BDO also emphasizes sustainability and ESG initiatives, reflecting a commitment to responsible business practices. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, BDO USA is well-equipped to support clients across various sectors, including healthcare, financial services, and technology.

6. RHR International

• Website: rhrinternational.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Canada 4%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: rhr-international

RHR International, founded in 1945 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent leadership consulting firm that specializes in executive coaching, team effectiveness, and board advisory services. With a team of behavioral scientists and practitioners, RHR focuses on helping CEOs, boards, and senior executives navigate complex leadership challenges. Their services are designed to enhance organizational performance and leadership capabilities, making them a trusted partner for high-level decision-makers. Operating globally, RHR has built a reputation for providing tailored solutions that address the unique needs of their clients. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that relies on their established expertise and client relationships.

7. Rsm Us LLP

• Website: rsmus.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, India 16%
• Latest funding: March 2025
• Founded year: 1926
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: rsm-us-llp

RSM US LLP, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent consulting firm that has been operational since 1926. The firm specializes in audit, tax, and consulting services, primarily catering to middle market companies. RSM's expertise helps clients navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve their strategic objectives. The firm operates across multiple industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services, providing tailored solutions that address the specific needs of each sector. With a workforce of nearly 19,000 employees, RSM has established a significant presence in the consulting industry, emphasizing a client-centric approach that prioritizes understanding and addressing client challenges. RSM is also a member of RSM International, a global network of independent firms, which allows them to leverage international resources and insights for their clients. This collaboration enhances their service offerings and supports their commitment to delivering quality consulting services.

8. Dlc

• Website: dlcinc.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: January 2019
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: dlc

DLC, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a financial consulting firm established in 2001. With a workforce of around 860 employees, the company specializes in driving transformation and growth for organizations of all sizes. Their service offerings include accounting and financial reporting, financial planning and analysis, interim financial management, and M&A due diligence support. DLC's consultants are typically CPAs with experience from major firms or MBAs from top business schools, ensuring a high level of expertise. The firm has been recognized by Inc. magazine and the Los Angeles Business Journal for its rapid growth and has received accolades for its workplace culture. DLC's focus on project-based execution allows them to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients, making them a significant player in the financial consulting sector.

9. Chartis

• Website: chartis.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2024
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: the-chartis-group

Chartis, founded in 2001 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a healthcare consulting firm that provides strategic, financial, and operational advisory services to healthcare organizations. With a workforce of approximately 3420 employees, Chartis aims to enhance care delivery and operational efficiency for hospitals, health systems, and cancer centers. Their consulting services cover a wide range of areas, including strategic planning, digital transformation, clinical optimization, and financial performance improvement. Chartis has been recognized for its client satisfaction, achieving a 94.5 rating and being ranked as the best overall management consulting firm by KLAS. Their commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, such as workforce wellness and health equity, further solidifies their role in the industry.

10. Zs

• Website: zs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 72%, United States (USA) 20%, Argentina 2%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: zs-associates

ZS Associates, founded in 1983 and based in Evanston, Illinois, is a prominent management consulting and professional services firm. With over 15,000 employees, ZS operates globally, primarily serving clients in the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology sectors. The firm specializes in providing consulting, software, and technology solutions that help organizations enhance their performance through data analytics and strategic insights. ZS is known for its deep expertise in areas such as life sciences R&D, commercial strategy, and digital transformation. Their approach combines industry knowledge with advanced analytics to address complex business challenges, making them a valuable partner for companies looking to improve their operations and customer engagement.

11. Lake Shore Associates, Inc.

• Website: lakeshore.is
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lake-shore-associates-inc.

Lake Shore Associates, Inc. is a management consulting firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in enhancing organizational productivity and performance through a range of services, including project management, organizational change management, vendor management, and strategic execution. With a team of 16 employees, Lake Shore Associates prides itself on its collaborative approach, ensuring that solutions are tailored to the unique needs of each client. Their clientele spans various industries, indicating their adaptability and expertise in addressing complex challenges. The firm emphasizes the importance of listening to clients and understanding their specific situations before proposing solutions. This client-centric philosophy, combined with their extensive experience, positions them as a valuable partner for organizations seeking to navigate change and improve performance.

12. Kincentric

• Website: kincentric.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 38%, United States (USA) 11%, Poland 10%, Other 40%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: kincentricco

Kincentric is a consulting firm that specializes in leadership assessment, talent advisory, and culture consulting. Founded in 2019, it operates as a part of Spencer Stuart, a well-known executive search and leadership consulting firm. Kincentric's services are designed to help organizations enhance their leadership capabilities and align their culture with strategic goals. They focus on improving team performance and developing effective leaders across various industries. Kincentric's approach integrates data-driven insights and proprietary tools to assess and develop leadership potential, making them a valuable partner for organizations looking to strengthen their leadership pipeline. Their global presence includes a significant workforce in countries like India, the United States, and Poland, reflecting their commitment to serving clients worldwide.

13. IA Business Advisors

• Website: iabusinessadvisors.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: individual-advantages

IA Business Advisors, based in Elgin, Illinois, has been assisting small and medium-sized businesses since its inception in 1996. The firm specializes in management consulting services, offering customized solutions in strategic planning, financial oversight, and operational efficiency. Their unique approach is encapsulated in their proprietary BizVision™ methodology, which emphasizes the integration of people, processes, and technology to foster business growth. IA Business Advisors has worked with clients across various industries, providing insights that help organizations identify and bridge operational gaps. Their S.M.A.R.T. Business Solutions framework ensures that strategies are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely, which is crucial for achieving sustainable success. The firm has also adapted its services to meet the needs of clients during challenging economic periods, demonstrating their commitment to client success and their ability to provide valuable guidance in times of uncertainty.

14. Springhill Consulting Group

• Website: springhillconsultinggroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: springhill-consulting-group

Springhill Consulting Group, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a management consulting firm established in 1995. With a team of 26 employees, the firm specializes in assisting organizations in improving their growth and productivity. They offer a range of services focused on growth strategy, market positioning, and operational efficiency. Springhill Consulting Group has worked with notable clients, including 25 of the Fortune 100 companies, showcasing their capability to handle significant projects. Their approach is characterized by a commitment to customized solutions and a focus on actionable insights. The firm operates across several key industries, such as aerospace and defense, consumer goods, energy, healthcare, and technology. They prioritize a collaborative process that engages stakeholders throughout the organization, ensuring that recommendations are practical and implementable.

15. The Keystone Group

• Website: thekeystonegroup.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $30.0M, September 2024
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-keystone-group

The Keystone Group, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a management consulting firm founded in 1991. With a team size of 11-50 employees, the firm specializes in providing consulting services to mid-market manufacturing and distribution clients. Their service offerings include profitable growth strategy, operational improvement, restructuring, and mergers & acquisitions. The Keystone Group aims to enhance business performance and help clients navigate complex challenges through customized consulting solutions. They have built a reputation for fostering long-term relationships with clients and delivering tangible results. The firm has also received recognition in various consulting rankings, highlighting their commitment to client service and firm culture. Recently, they secured funding of approximately $29.99 million, indicating ongoing investment in their capabilities and growth.

16. The Northridge Group

• Website: northridgegroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rosemont, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-northridge-group

The Northridge Group, based in Rosemont, Illinois, is a management consulting firm founded in 1999. With a workforce of approximately 85 employees, the firm specializes in enhancing customer experience and driving operational excellence. Their service offerings include employee development, technology solutions, and business process optimization, aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery for clients across multiple sectors such as telecom, healthcare, and financial services. The firm utilizes advanced data analytics and business process redesign to deliver measurable results. Their client base includes major corporations, indicating a strong foothold in the consulting industry. The Northridge Group has not reported any funding, suggesting they operate as a self-sustaining entity focused on delivering value through their consulting services.

17. HealthScape Advisors, a Chartis Company

• Website: healthscape.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: healthscape-advisors

HealthScape Advisors, a Chartis Company, is a Chicago-based consulting firm founded in 2009. The firm specializes in healthcare advisory services, providing strategic consulting to health plans, providers, specialty health organizations, and healthcare investors. Their expertise lies in growth strategies, operational performance improvement, and value creation, helping clients navigate the intricate challenges of the healthcare sector. HealthScape Advisors has partnered with over 300 healthcare organizations, offering insights and actionable strategies that drive sustainable value. Their team comprises professionals with extensive backgrounds in healthcare, enabling them to support clients in achieving their strategic objectives effectively. As part of Chartis, HealthScape Advisors is well-positioned to leverage a broader network and resources to enhance their service offerings.

18. Ricondo & Associates, Inc.

• Website: ricondo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ricondo-%26-associates

Ricondo & Associates, Inc., founded in 1989 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is an aviation consulting firm that specializes in strategic advisory services tailored for airport owners, operators, and airlines. With a workforce of approximately 173 employees, Ricondo has built a reputation for addressing complex challenges within the aviation industry. Their service offerings include business advisory, financial strategies, facilities and operations consulting, and environmental services. Ricondo's consultants leverage decades of industry experience to provide customized solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. They have been involved in significant projects, such as the modernization of major airports and the development of comprehensive airport strategies. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their proprietary V3CTOR quality assurance process, which ensures thorough oversight throughout project phases. Ricondo's focus on sustainability and environmental considerations further enhances their relevance in today's aviation landscape, where such factors are increasingly prioritized.

19. CTS Impact

• Website: ctsimpact.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cts-impact

CTS Impact, founded in 2002 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in hands-on business consulting services. The firm focuses on improving business processes, implementing software solutions, and providing data analytics services. Their clientele includes Fortune 1000 companies and emerging growth firms, indicating their capability to handle complex projects across various sectors. CTS Impact prides itself on a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to analyze and implement tailored solutions. They serve multiple industries, including financial services, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. The firm is also a woman-owned business and is committed to social impact, integrating community support into their business model. Their team consists of professionals with substantial real-world experience, which enhances their ability to deliver practical and effective consulting services.

20. Exactus Advisors

• Website: exactusadvisors.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: exactus-advisors

Exactus Advisors is a Chicago-based business advisory firm founded in 2016. With a team of around 30 professionals, the firm focuses on management consulting services that drive business optimization, leadership development, and operational analytics. They cater primarily to private equity firms, financial institutions, and manufacturing organizations, assisting them in overcoming challenges related to transformation and operational efficiency. Exactus Advisors employs a hands-on approach, working closely with clients to tailor solutions that meet their unique needs. Their expertise is reflected in various successful case studies, where they have helped clients achieve substantial cost savings and improve their operational frameworks. The firm prides itself on fostering strong relationships with clients, emphasizing the importance of understanding their specific contexts to deliver actionable insights and sustainable value.

21. Gagen MacDonald

• Website: gagenmacdonald.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2023
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gagen-macdonald

Gagen MacDonald, founded in 1998 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in human-focused transformation. With a team of approximately 85 employees, the firm partners with large organizations to facilitate M&A integration, business and digital transformation, and enhance employee engagement. Their approach is rooted in the belief that successful change is driven by culture and communication. Gagen MacDonald has worked with notable clients across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, technology, and consumer products, helping them navigate complex transformations. The firm is also recognized as a women-owned business, which adds to its unique position in the consulting industry.

22. McMillanDoolittle - Transforming Retail

• Website: mcmillandoolittle.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mcmillan-doolittle

McMillanDoolittle - Transforming Retail, founded in 1986 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in retail strategy and performance enhancement. With a team of experienced professionals, they offer a range of services including strategic planning, digital transformation, and consumer insights. Their approach is characterized by a commitment to collaboration and a deep understanding of the retail sector. Over the years, McMillanDoolittle has worked with a variety of retail businesses, helping them to optimize operations and adapt to market changes. They have also developed proprietary methodologies that have become standards in the industry. Their involvement extends internationally, with a presence in 24 countries and a client roster that includes 33 of the top 50 retailers worldwide. This extensive experience and focus on retail make them a significant player in the management consulting field.

Management Consulting Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Kearney	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1926	Private
Crowe	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1961	Corporate
Sikich	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1982	Venture Capital
Navigant Consulting Inc.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1999	Private Equity
Bdo Usa, LLP	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1910	Private
RHR International	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1945	Private
Rsm Us LLP	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	10001+	1926	Corporate
Dlc	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	2001	Corporate
Chartis	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	2001	Private Equity
Zs	Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)	10001+	1983	Private
Lake Shore Associates, Inc.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Kincentric	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	2019	Family Owned
IA Business Advisors	Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1996	Family Owned
Springhill Consulting Group	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1995	Private
The Keystone Group	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1991	Corporate
The Northridge Group	Rosemont, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1999	Private
HealthScape Advisors, a Chartis Company	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Corporate
Ricondo & Associates, Inc.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1989	Private
CTS Impact	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2002	Private
Exactus Advisors	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2016	Family Owned
Gagen MacDonald	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1998	Corporate
McMillanDoolittle - Transforming Retail	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1986	Family Owned

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