AArete: Consulting Services, Careers, Culture, and Salary Guide

AArete is a management consulting firm specializing in profitability improvement, digital transformation, and advisory services. With more than 500 employees and global offices, AArete consulting has grown into a trusted partner for industries like healthcare, financial services, and retail. Whether you’re curious about AArete careers, salaries, or workplace culture, this guide breaks it all down. In this article, we will explore AArete’s history, services, industries, recruiting process, internships, salaries, and what it’s like to work at the firm.

TL;DR - What You Need to Know

• AArete is a consulting firm headquartered in Chicago with 530 employees, nine offices worldwide, and CEO Loren Trimble leading the company.
• AArete consulting services include profitability improvement, digital transformation, and advisory work across industries like healthcare, finance, and retail.
• AArete careers follow a clear path from consultant to manager, supported by internships, PTO benefits, and long-term ESOP participation.
• The AArete interview process combines behavioral and case interviews, with candidate experiences varying across recruitment and communication.
• AArete salary averages range from $96,000 in operations to $159,000 for managers, with senior consultants earning about $137,000.

What are the key facts about AArete?

AArete is a consulting firm headquartered in Chicago with about 530 employees, nine global offices, and annual revenue of roughly $60 million. The firm is led by CEO Loren Trimble and focuses on profitability improvement, digital transformation, and advisory services.

AArete has grown steadily since its founding, combining data-driven consulting with industry expertise to help clients in healthcare, finance, and retail. These facts position AArete as a mid-sized player in the management consulting market.

Key details about AArete include:

• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
• CEO: Loren Trimble
• Employees: Approximately 530
• Offices: Nine worldwide, including the U.S., U.K., and India
• Annual Revenue: About $60 million
• Core Services: Profitability, digital, and advisory consulting

When was AArete founded and what is its history?

AArete was founded in 2008 with the goal of helping companies turn complex data into actionable insights. Since then, the firm has expanded its consulting services globally, focusing on digital transformation, profitability improvement, and advisory work across industries.

From its origins in Chicago, AArete grew into a multi-office firm serving clients in healthcare, finance, retail, and the public sector. Its name, derived from the Greek word for “excellence,” reflects the firm’s emphasis on delivering measurable business results.

Milestones in AArete’s history:

• 2008: Firm founded in Chicago
• 2010s: Expanded into healthcare and financial services consulting
• 2015: Opened offices in India to support global delivery
• 2020s: Recognition by Forbes as one of the world’s best management consulting firms

AArete’s growth story illustrates how a mid-sized consulting company can combine data expertise with industry knowledge to compete with larger players.

What consulting services does AArete provide?

AArete provides consulting services in three main areas: strategic profitability improvement, digital and technology transformation, and advisory. These services combine data analytics with industry expertise to help clients reduce costs, improve operations, and accelerate growth.

Each practice area offers targeted solutions:

• Strategic Profitability Improvement: Identifying cost-saving opportunities and increasing operational efficiency
• Digital & Technology: Implementing tools for automation, cloud, and data management
• Advisory: Guiding organizations on strategy, market analysis, and organizational change

For consulting candidates, these services define the types of projects and skill sets you can expect at the firm. The breadth of AArete’s offerings positions it to compete in industries undergoing rapid digital transformation.

Which industries does AArete work with?

AArete works with clients in industries such as healthcare, financial services, education, retail, public sector, technology, and logistics. The firm uses its consulting expertise to tailor solutions that address industry-specific challenges in operations, profitability, and digital transformation.

Industries served by AArete include:

• Healthcare payer and provider organizations
• Financial services and banking
• Higher education institutions
• Retail and consumer businesses
• Public sector agencies
• Transportation, logistics, and distribution
• Technology and professional services

This industry breadth allows AArete consultants to gain cross-sector experience, while clients benefit from insights adapted across multiple markets.

Where are AArete’s offices located worldwide?

AArete has nine offices worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States and additional locations in the United Kingdom and India. Its headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois, with offices in major U.S. cities, London, and two Indian technology hubs.

AArete office locations include:

• United States: Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, New York City, Washington, D.C.
• United Kingdom: London
• India: Hyderabad, Pune

These global offices allow AArete to serve both domestic and international clients while offering consultants opportunities to work across markets.

What schools does AArete recruit from?

AArete recruits from universities in the United States and India, focusing on schools known for strong business, technology, and engineering programs. The firm seeks candidates who demonstrate analytical ability, leadership, and interest in consulting careers.

Target schools include:

• Indiana University Bloomington
• Kelley School of Business at Indiana University
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• University of Iowa
• University of Notre Dame
• Savitribai Phule Pune University (India)
• Vishwakarma Institute of Technology (India)

By targeting a mix of U.S. and Indian institutions, AArete builds a diverse pipeline of talent for both consulting and data-driven roles.

Does AArete have diversity and inclusion programs?

AArete supports diversity primarily through the Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), which promotes hiring, retention, and mentorship of women in consulting. While this program reflects progress, some employee reviews suggest the firm still has room to grow in building a more inclusive workplace.

Programs and initiatives:

• WIN (Women’s Initiative Network): career development for women
• AAreaching Out: volunteer and community engagement program
• Employee groups: fitness and social networks like the AArete Athletic Association

These efforts indicate that diversity and inclusion are on the firm’s agenda, though candidate experiences may vary.

What exit opportunities do AArete consultants have?

AArete consultants often transition into roles in technology, data analytics, digital transformation, and industry-specific positions. Because of the firm’s data-driven consulting focus, alumni are well positioned for careers that require both business and technical expertise.

Typical exit paths include:

• Technology and data analytics firms
• Digital transformation and strategy roles in corporations
• Healthcare and financial services companies
• Graduate school or MBA programs

For candidates, these exits highlight the transferable skills developed at AArete, including problem solving, project management, and technical fluency.

What career paths are available at AArete?

AArete offers structured career progression from entry-level consultant to senior consultant, manager, and director. Employees receive benefits such as paid time off, healthcare coverage, and the chance to participate in the employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) after several years.

Typical career ladder at AArete:

• Consultant (entry-level, post-undergraduate or MBA)
• Senior Consultant (2 to 4 years of experience)
• Manager (leading teams and client delivery)
• Director and above (strategic leadership and firm growth)

For consulting candidates, these career paths illustrate how skills in profitability improvement, digital, and advisory projects can translate into long-term opportunities.

Does AArete offer internships?

AArete offers internships for college students and recent graduates, providing opportunities to gain hands-on consulting experience. Programs include summer internships for rising seniors as well as part-time roles during the academic year in areas like digital, data, and marketing.

Internship opportunities at AArete:

• Summer internships for students entering their senior year
• Part-time internships during the school year (10 to 15 hours per week)
• Post-graduate internships with more hours and project depth
• Exposure to consulting projects in profitability, digital, and advisory practices

For aspiring consultants, these internships provide practical exposure, mentorship, and a path toward full-time careers at AArete.

What is the culture like at AArete?

AArete’s culture emphasizes small project teams, collaboration, and work-life balance, with flexible PTO policies and opportunities for community involvement. Employee experiences vary, with some praising mentorship and others noting challenges in communication and inclusivity.

Aspects of AArete culture include:

• Project teams that encourage collaboration and peer learning
• Flexible PTO and work-life balance policies
• Internal networks like AAreaching Out (volunteer group) and AArete Athletic Association
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) for long-term engagement

While perspectives differ, candidates can expect a mix of supportive benefits and evolving challenges typical of a mid-sized consulting firm.

What is the AArete interview process like?

AArete’s interview process typically includes behavioral questions, case interviews, and discussions with HR. Candidate experiences are mixed, with some reporting a smooth process and others describing limited communication or delays from recruiters.

Typical steps in the AArete interview process:

• Application and resume screening through campus recruiting or online portal
• Behavioral interviews focused on teamwork, leadership, and problem solving
• Case interviews assessing analytical skills and client communication
• Final round with senior consultants or managers

For candidates, preparation in both case and behavioral questions is essential to succeed in the process.

What are salaries at AArete by role?

AArete salaries vary by role and location, but averages suggest competitive pay for consultants and managers. Senior consultants earn about $137,000 annually, while managers average $159,000. Data analysts and operations staff typically earn between $95,000 and $107,000.

Estimated average salaries at AArete:

• Senior Consultant: $137,000
• Manager: $159,000
• Data Analyst: $107,000
• Operations: $96,000

While salaries are competitive for a mid-sized firm, compensation packages also include PTO, healthcare benefits, and potential ESOP participation for long-term employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is AArete prestigious?
A: AArete is considered a respected management consulting firm, particularly known for its expertise in healthcare, financial services, and digital transformation. While smaller than MBB, AArete is prestigious within its niche markets.

Q: Is AArete a good company to work for?
A: Many candidates ask, “Is AArete a good company to work for?” AArete careers are valued for strong culture, mentorship, and growth opportunities, making it a solid choice for consultants seeking hands-on client impact.

Q: How much does a managing director at AArete make?
A: A managing director at AArete can expect a total compensation package in the high six figures. Exact AArete salary depends on experience and performance but typically includes base pay, bonus, and long-term incentives. 

Q: How much do senior consultants make at AArete?
A: Senior consultants at AArete usually earn between $110,000 and $140,000 annually in total compensation. This AArete salary range reflects base pay, bonuses, and other benefits common in consulting careers. 

Q: What is the revenue of AArete?
A: AArete revenue is estimated at over $100 million annually, reflecting steady growth since its founding. This positions AArete consulting as a mid-sized player among management consulting firms.