Yes, that can be a credible basis for a referral if the consultant actually observed your work.

The important question is whether they know enough about your problem solving, reliability, and communication to recommend you with confidence.

Because you worked together on a real project, you can ask for advice on your application and let the referral discussion follow naturally rather than treating the relationship as a shortcut.

Remind them of the project and the work they saw, then ask whether they would feel comfortable supporting your application. consulting networking guide You may also find the consulting coffee chat guide useful.

That feels much stronger than asking someone after a random coffee chat because they have actually seen you work.

imo I would still ask for advice first and give them room to decide whether a referral makes sense.