Consulting firms hire both broad problem solvers and specialists; neither profile is universally preferred.

The mix depends on whether you apply to a generalist role or a practice needing deep industry, technology or functional experience.

A supply-chain leader may bring valuable knowledge to operations work but still need to show transferable structured thinking. Position industry depth as evidence of judgment while showing that you can learn unfamiliar sectors.

Lead with a specific client problem your expertise would help solve, then show examples of working beyond your specialty. The distinction between generalist and specialist consulting roles can help you choose which vacancies fit your profile.

My expertise is niche, so I'm unsure whether to lean into it.

A generalist role sounds more flexible but maybe harder to justify.