2026 Black@Kearney Emerging Consultants Programme

The Black@Kearney Emerging Consultants Programme in London supports students of Black heritage in their penultimate year of university on their journey into consulting.

Kearney’s commitment

At Kearney, we seek to encourage and inspire exceptional Black students with the aim of increasing the representation of Black employees across our firm. We commit to lead by example, using our voice, power, and resources to act. This programme is sponsored by Black@Kearney, a network of Black employees and allies aiming to create real change for Black communities, both within our firm and in the wider community.

This is a great opportunity for students to learn more about our firm, gain insights into consulting and participate in a case challenge.

What is the Black@Kearney Emerging Consultants Programme?

The programme begins with a two-day, in-person consulting experience at Kearney’s London office. Following this experience, a few participants will be selected to continue into the Black@Kearney Emerging Consultants Programme, a year-long development experience designed to equip participants with an excellent skillset for the consulting industry, alongside a financial stipend of £2,000.

If you are selected, you will be offered:

• A financial stipend of £2,000 for the 2026–2027 academic year
• Opportunity to take part in a pro bono consulting project under the mentorship of Kearney consultants
• 1:1 mentoring support from a Kearney consultant
• Access to the Kearney network and opportunities to connect with diverse employees across the firm
• Coaching on the job application process, including CV support and competency interview tips
• Case interview preparation support to successfully interview for consulting roles

You will be expected to:

• Act as an informal ambassador of Kearney at your university, upholding our core values
• Support with the organisation of outreach or engagement event(s) at your university, as required
• Assist with the promotion of the Black@Kearney Emerging Consultants Programme

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for students of Black heritage in their penultimate year of undergraduate study, from any degree or discipline. Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong problem‑solving ability
• Leadership potential and a track record of initiative and impact

How do you apply?

Click the “Apply” button below. You will need to upload the following in PDF format: your CV; your answers to the three short application questions (below). At Kearney, we are proud of our five core values—curiosity, generosity, boldness, solidarity, and passion. We are looking for original, thoughtful, and concise answers that help us get to know you better — but most importantly, be genuine in what you write.

1. Give an example of a time you demonstrated one of the five Kearney values. What was the resulting impact, and why is this value important to you? (250 words max)
2. Imagine your university is looking to invest to improve the student experience. This could include, but is not limited to, student well‑being, access and outreach, or career support. You are in a team with support from Kearney consultants and resources and are pitching an idea for this investment. What project would you run on your campus and why? (200 words max)
3. What role (if any) do you think businesses should play in creating a more equal world? (200 words max)

Please note that we do not require a cover letter or transcripts.

What happens after you apply?

Kearney will review applications on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the two-day, in-person experience at our London office.

Programme dates: Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 April 2026

Location: London office

Candidates selected to attend the programme will be notified on Friday 13 March 2026. Applications close: Sunday 8 March 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For questions, please contact BlackLondon@Kearney.com.

Equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination

Kearney prides itself on providing a culture that allows employees to bring their best selves to work every day. Our people can feel comfortable, confident, and joyful to do great things for our firm, our colleagues, and our clients. That’s why Kearney is committed to building a diverse, unbiased, and inclusive workforce. Kearney is an equal opportunity employer; we recruit, hire, train, promote, develop, and provide other conditions of employment without regard to a person’s gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, pregnancy status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other differences consistent with applicable laws. This includes providing reasonable accommodation for disabilities or religious beliefs and practices. Members of communities historically underrepresented in consulting are encouraged to apply.

Language Requirements

Must be fluent in spoken and written English.