Illinois is home to a robust HR consulting industry that focuses on helping businesses optimize their human resource functions. This sector includes various types of firms, from small boutique companies to larger, well-established players. They offer services such as talent management, payroll administration, and employee engagement strategies. As remote work and diversity initiatives grow in importance, these firms are adapting, leveraging technology to meet changing business needs. Economic shifts and new workforce expectations signal a bright future for HR consulting, pushing firms to innovate and expand their offerings in this dynamic environment.

The featured companies range from small teams to large firms, with headquarters mainly located in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. With founding years spanning from the 1940s to the 2010s, these businesses represent a broad spectrum of specialties, from executive search and talent management to payroll services and HR technology solutions. Notably, many companies prioritize innovative approaches, harnessing data and industry insights to meet client demands.

Continue reading to discover the top HR consulting companies in Illinois.

Top 23 HR Consulting Companies Companies in Illinois

1. 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 a workforce of over 2,200 employees, Sikich specializes in technology-enabled solutions that span accounting, advisory, and managed services. The firm serves a wide array of clients, including corporations and not-for-profits, helping them enhance performance and achieve strategic objectives. Sikich's service offerings include Human Capital Management and Payroll, which cater to HR needs, but they also extend into areas like cybersecurity, business transformation, and tax services. Recently, Sikich secured a significant investment of $250 million from Bain Capital to support its growth strategy, indicating a strong position in the market. This funding allows them to further develop their service offerings and expand their reach across various industries.

2. HRBoost, LLC.

• Website: hrboost.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Libertyville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hrboost-llc.

HRBoost, LLC. is an HR consulting firm based in Libertyville, Illinois, specializing in outsourced human resources services. Established in 2010, the company focuses on providing tailored solutions to small and mid-sized businesses, helping them enhance their HR functions and improve employee engagement. HRBoost offers a range of services, including HR shared services, payroll management, employee wellness assessments, and various HR consulting projects. Their team comprises seasoned HR professionals, each bringing significant experience to the table. The firm has successfully partnered with clients across multiple industries, including professional services, healthcare, and manufacturing, demonstrating its adaptability and commitment to client success. HRBoost's proactive approach to HR management aims to align with clients' business strategies, ensuring that their HR practices not only meet current needs but also anticipate future growth. The company has built a reputation for delivering measurable results, helping clients achieve recognition as top workplaces. Currently, HRBoost operates without external funding, relying on its operational success and client relationships to drive growth.

3. Axiom Consulting Partners

• Website: axiomcp.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $11.9M, May 2009
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: axiom-consulting-partners

Axiom Consulting Partners, also known as Lotis Blue Consulting, is a consulting firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2005. With a team of approximately 62 employees, the firm specializes in organizational transformation and talent management. They provide a variety of services, including business transformation, leadership development, and change management, aimed at helping organizations enhance their effectiveness and navigate complex changes. Their client base spans multiple industries, such as consumer retail, healthcare, and technology, indicating their broad applicability in the market. Axiom has also integrated data science into their consulting approach, allowing them to offer insights that drive strategic decision-making. The firm has received funding amounting to nearly $11.9 million, which underscores its growth potential and commitment to innovation in the consulting field.

4. Ferguson Partners

• Website: fergusonpartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 72%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%, Australia 3%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ferguson-partners

Ferguson Partners, founded in 1989 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in talent management and compensation consulting. With a workforce of approximately 124 employees, the firm operates globally, with offices in major cities including New York, London, and Hong Kong. Ferguson Partners provides a range of services such as executive search, leadership consulting, and management consulting, primarily serving clients in the real estate and healthcare sectors. Their expertise in navigating complex compensation issues and enhancing leadership effectiveness has made them a trusted partner for organizations looking to optimize their human capital strategies. The firm has built a reputation for its deep knowledge of the real estate industry, advising numerous public and private firms on compensation matters. They also conduct surveys to assess compensation practices, further solidifying their role as a key player in the HR consulting space.

5. emphasisHR

• Website: emphasishr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Deerfield, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: emphas-shr

emphasisHR, based in Deerfield, Illinois, is an HR consulting firm that specializes in managed HR services, payroll administration, benefits management, and talent management solutions. Founded in 2018, the company has quickly carved out a niche for itself by focusing on personalized service tailored to the unique needs of its clients. With a team of experienced professionals, emphasisHR aims to streamline HR processes and ensure compliance with regulations, which is crucial for businesses navigating the complexities of human resources. They serve a variety of industries, including private equity, hospitality, transportation, and not-for-profit sectors, showcasing their adaptability and understanding of different business environments. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing dedicated HR professionals to support clients in achieving their business goals. Their commitment to transparency in pricing and customized deliverables further enhances their appeal to small and mid-sized businesses seeking effective HR solutions.

6. 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 across various industries to navigate the complexities of change. Their services include M&A integration, business and digital transformation, and employee engagement, all aimed at fostering a culture of communication and collaboration. Gagen MacDonald believes that successful transformation starts within the organization, focusing on the human aspects of change. They have worked with notable clients, including Fortune 100 companies, to enhance their employee experience and align their organizational culture with strategic goals. As a women-owned business, they also bring a unique perspective to the consulting industry, advocating for meaningful work and purpose-driven leadership.

7. Launchways

• Website: launchways.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: launchways-co

Launchways, founded in 2009 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in human resources, payroll, employee benefits, and business insurance solutions. With a team of 23 employees, they focus on providing tailored strategies for fast-growing businesses, helping them navigate workforce challenges effectively. Their services include compliance support, payroll administration, strategic HR consulting, and benefits brokerage. Launchways positions itself as a trusted partner, working closely with clients to develop innovative solutions that align with their long-term objectives. They have established a reputation for delivering cost-effective benefits packages and comprehensive HR technology solutions, making them a notable player in the HR consulting industry.

8. CAA | Hanold Executive Search & Leadership Advisory

• Website: hanold-associates.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2024
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hanold-associates-llc

CAA | Hanold Executive Search & Leadership Advisory, based in Evanston, Illinois, is an executive search and leadership advisory firm that specializes in recruiting for human resources and diversity roles. Founded in 2010, the firm has carved out a niche in helping organizations find leaders who align with their cultural values, thereby enhancing overall performance. Their services extend beyond traditional executive search; they also provide consulting on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is crucial for modern businesses. The firm operates with a collaborative approach, leveraging a team of experienced professionals to ensure a thorough and efficient search process. They have established a strong reputation for presenting candidates who are not only qualified but also fit well within the organizational culture. Recently, they were acquired by Creative Artists Agency (CAA), which allows them to expand their services globally, further solidifying their position in the industry.

9. Atlas

• Website: atlashxm.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 23%, India 17%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Other 53%
• Latest funding: Series B, $200.0M, September 2022
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: atlashxm

Atlas HXM, founded in 2015 and based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in global human resources and employment services. The company provides solutions that enable businesses to hire and manage employees internationally while ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. Their offerings include Employer of Record solutions, global hiring support, and enhancements to employee experience, catering to sectors such as technology, finance, and non-profits. With a workforce of over 2,100 employees and a presence in more than 160 countries, Atlas has established itself as a significant player in the HR consulting industry. The company has received substantial funding, with a recent Series B round raising $200 million in September 2022, reflecting strong investor confidence in its business model and growth trajectory. Atlas has also been recognized by industry analysts, including NelsonHall and the Everest Group, for its expertise in EOR services, further solidifying its position in the market.

10. Work Friendly

• Website: workfriendlyconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: work-friendly

Work Friendly is a Chicago-based HR consulting firm founded in 2016. With a team that boasts over 100 years of combined HR experience, the company focuses on providing comprehensive human resources solutions tailored to the unique needs of small to medium-sized enterprises and startups. Their services include recruiting, talent management, HRIS implementation, and support during mergers and acquisitions. Work Friendly prides itself on its ability to integrate seamlessly into clients' company cultures, ensuring that their HR strategies align with the values and goals of the businesses they serve. The firm has built its reputation entirely on client referrals, highlighting its commitment to delivering impactful and lasting relationships within various industries. As a female-founded company, Work Friendly emphasizes the importance of culture in the workplace and aims to empower organizations by optimizing their HR functions.

11. Ossanna Consulting

• Website: ossanna.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Barrington, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ossanna-consulting

Ossanna Consulting Group, based in Barrington, Illinois, is a human resources consulting firm that has been operational since 1988. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in providing tailored HR solutions that include direct hire placements, project-based consulting, and virtual payroll services. Ossanna serves a wide array of businesses, helping them improve their HR functions and effectively manage talent. The firm prides itself on its commitment to quality service and client satisfaction, which has been a cornerstone of its operations for nearly 36 years. Founded by Nikki Teik, Ossanna has built a reputation for its innovative approach to HR consulting, particularly in areas such as change management, talent acquisition, and organizational design. The company has developed a robust network of HR professionals and maintains a strong focus on nurturing relationships with both clients and candidates, ensuring a personalized experience. Ossanna Consulting has worked with numerous clients, from startups to established corporations, showcasing its adaptability and expertise in the HR consulting field.

12. Felix

• Website: felixglobal.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 65%, United States (USA) 35%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: felix-global-corp

Felix Global, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an executive recruitment and HR consulting firm founded in 1991. The company specializes in talent acquisition, organizational performance, and career transition services, catering to businesses aiming to enhance their workforce strategies. With a team of experts, Felix provides tailored consulting solutions that focus on improving leadership effectiveness and organizational culture. Their services include executive search, talent development, and insights, as well as specialized support for C-suite executives. Felix has a significant presence in Canada, with 65% of its workforce located there, and has built a reputation for delivering high-touch, integrated solutions that drive organizational success. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model based on its consulting expertise and client relationships.

13. St. Charles Consulting Group

• Website: stccg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Charles, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: st-charles-consulting-group

St. Charles Consulting Group, based in St. Charles, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in talent development solutions. Established in 2002, the company has built a reputation for delivering strategic consulting, custom learning solutions, and managed services designed to enhance workforce performance. With a team of approximately 140 employees, they have worked with over 120 clients, positively impacting more than 158,000 learners. Their clientele spans various sectors, including financial services, healthcare, and technology, indicating their adaptability and expertise in addressing the unique challenges faced by different industries. St. Charles Consulting Group employs a human-centered design approach in their learning solutions, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of their clients. They also emphasize the importance of organizational change management and measurement analytics, which are essential for businesses navigating today's dynamic environment. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a stable, self-sustaining business model.

14. Highland Performance Solutions

• Website: highlandperformancesolutions.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oak Brook, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: highlandperformancesolutions

Highland Performance Solutions, based in Oak Brook, Illinois, is a boutique consulting firm founded in 2019. The company specializes in organizational performance and talent management, offering a range of services that include leadership development, executive search, and workforce transition. With a team of experienced professionals, Highland Performance Solutions aims to help organizations navigate the complexities of workforce challenges and improve overall performance. They cater to both large enterprises and startups, providing tailored solutions that address specific business needs. Their commitment to a human-centered approach reflects a deep understanding of the importance of people in driving organizational success. Although they have not reported any funding, their focus on innovative and effective strategies positions them as a relevant player in the HR consulting industry.

15. Lotis Blue

• Website: lotisblueconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Brazil 6%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: axiom-consulting-partners

Lotis Blue Consulting, founded in 2005 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in business transformation, leadership and talent development, change acceleration, and data and behavioral science. With a team of approximately 35 employees, the firm has worked with 372 clients across multiple industries, including consumer retail, health, and technology. Lotis Blue emphasizes a human-centered approach, leveraging data and behavioral science to enhance organizational performance and navigate change effectively. Their services include talent strategy, team effectiveness, and change management, making them a relevant player in the HR consulting sector. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model.

16. Staff Management, Inc.

• Website: staffmgmt.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Rockford, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: staff-management-inc.

Staff Management, Inc., based in Rockford, Illinois, is a family-owned human resources consulting firm established in 1983. The company specializes in providing a range of HR services, including HR outsourcing, payroll management, employee benefits, and compliance services. With a dedicated team of HR professionals, Staff Management focuses on assisting small to midsize businesses and nonprofit organizations in managing their HR functions effectively. Over the years, they have developed best practices and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of their clients. Notably, Staff Management was among the first organizations to receive the Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) designation from the IRS, which underscores their commitment to operational excellence and compliance. Their involvement in the industry is marked by a strong emphasis on client relationships and community engagement, positioning them as a reliable partner for businesses navigating the complexities of human resources.

17. 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 established in 1999. With a workforce of around 85 employees, the company specializes in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency across various sectors. Their service portfolio includes employee development, technology solutions, and business process optimization, aimed at improving organizational performance. Northridge Group has worked with clients from industries such as telecom, healthcare, and financial services, providing tailored strategies to address specific operational challenges. Their commitment to employee engagement and development is evident in their offerings, which include coaching, leadership training, and performance management programs. This focus positions them as a relevant player in the HR consulting space, despite their broader management consulting identity.

18. Shields Meneley Partners

• Website: shieldsmeneley.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: shields-meneley-partners

Shields Meneley Partners, now operating under the name Felix Global, is a consulting firm based in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 2001, the company specializes in talent acquisition and organizational performance. They provide a variety of services, including executive coaching, C-Suite advisory, and strategic workforce planning. Their clientele primarily consists of businesses and organizations aiming to improve leadership effectiveness and navigate complex workforce challenges. The firm has built a reputation for its high-touch delivery and integrated solutions, which are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. With a team of experienced professionals who have held senior roles in various industries, Felix Global is well-equipped to support organizations in achieving their talent and organizational goals.

19. Tandem HR

• Website: tandemhr.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Westchester, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2021
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: tandem-hr

Tandem HR, founded in 1998 and based in Westchester, Illinois, is a human resources consulting firm that provides a range of HR solutions tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. The company focuses on outsourcing HR functions, which allows its clients to streamline operations and concentrate on growth. Their services include payroll administration, employee benefits, risk management, and technology solutions. Tandem HR positions itself as a partner to its clients, offering a dedicated team approach that aligns experts across various HR facets. This strategy not only helps businesses comply with ever-changing employment laws but also enhances their ability to attract and retain talent through competitive benefits packages. The firm operates entirely within the United States and has built a reputation for delivering personalized service and effective HR solutions. As of the latest information, Tandem HR has not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external investment.

20. 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 based in Chicago, Illinois, that specializes in HR services, particularly in leadership assessment, talent advisory, and culture development. Founded in 2019, Kincentric has quickly established itself as a player in the HR consulting sector. The firm is part of Spencer Stuart, a prominent executive search and leadership consulting company, which allows Kincentric to leverage extensive resources and expertise. Kincentric's focus on enhancing organizational performance through effective leadership and culture alignment positions it as a relevant entity in the HR consulting industry. Their services cater to various sectors, helping organizations navigate the complexities of talent management and organizational effectiveness.

21. Beaird Group

• Website: beairdgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Naperville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: beaird-group

Beaird Group, founded in 1994 and based in Naperville, Illinois, is a business consulting firm that specializes in strategic consulting across various domains, including human resources. With a team of around 60 professionals, the firm has built a reputation for its client-focused approach and collaborative strategies. Beaird Group partners with organizations to tackle challenges and drive growth through tailored solutions. Their HR services focus on transforming workforce dynamics, enhancing employee engagement, and ensuring compliance with HR practices. The firm has a strong track record, boasting a 95% referral rate and decades-long client relationships, which underscores their effectiveness in the industry. Beaird Group has not reported any funding, indicating a stable, self-sustaining business model.

22. Cube Hub Inc.

• Website: cube-hub.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, India 36%, Mexico 3%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: cube-hub

Cube Hub Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Aurora, Illinois, is a staffing agency and consulting firm that specializes in managed services and project solutions. The company operates primarily in the IT, Engineering, and Finance sectors, providing tailored staffing solutions and project management services to a range of clients, including Fortune 500 companies. Cube Hub is recognized for its commitment to enhancing workforce capabilities and addressing complex project needs. The firm is a women-owned minority business enterprise, which underscores its dedication to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Their offerings include not only staffing solutions but also employee benefits and diversity programs, reflecting a holistic approach to human resource management. With a workforce distribution that spans the United States, India, and Mexico, Cube Hub demonstrates a global reach while maintaining a strong local presence. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that relies on its operational capabilities and client relationships.

23. 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. The company serves a global clientele, primarily focusing on CEOs, boards, and senior executives. RHR's mission is to shape leaders who can navigate complex challenges and drive organizational success. With a team of skilled behavioral scientists and practitioners, RHR offers tailored solutions that enhance leadership capabilities and foster high-performing teams. Their services include assessments, coaching and development, and support for board and CEO transitions. RHR has built a reputation for its deep understanding of leadership dynamics and its ability to provide actionable insights that help organizations thrive in a competitive landscape.

HR Consulting Companies Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

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