Guidehouse Consulting: Careers, Culture, and Interview Insights

Guidehouse Consulting has quickly become one of the most respected names in management and risk consulting. Originally spun out from PwC in 2018 and strengthened through its acquisition of Navigant Consulting, the firm now operates across 55+ locations with more than 18,000 professionals worldwide. Whether you’re exploring Guidehouse careers or wondering what Guidehouse Consulting does, this guide will help you understand the firm’s history, culture, interview process, and growth opportunities.

TL;DR – What You Need to Know

Guidehouse Consulting is a global management consulting firm helping public and private sector clients solve complex challenges in strategy, risk management, and technology transformation.

• Founded in 2018 after PwC’s public sector spin-off and expanded through its 2019 Navigant Consulting acquisition.
• Operates across 55 global offices with 18,000+ professionals serving healthcare, energy, defense, and financial clients.
• Offers careers across risk management, sustainability, and technology consulting with structured growth from Consultant to Partner.
• The Guidehouse interview process focuses on problem-solving, communication, and cultural fit through behavioral and situational questions.
• Salaries range from $70,000–$180,000 with strong benefits, inclusion networks, and balanced work-life culture for consultants worldwide.

What Is Guidehouse Consulting and What Does the Firm Do?

Guidehouse Consulting is a global management consulting firm that helps public and private sector clients address complex challenges in risk management, technology, and transformation. Originating from PwC’s public sector practice and strengthened by its acquisition of Navigant Consulting, Guidehouse provides data-driven, mission-focused solutions across industries like healthcare, defense, and energy.

Guidehouse Consulting was founded in 2018 after PwC sold its U.S. public sector consulting arm to Veritas Capital, a private equity firm. The firm quickly expanded its capabilities and market presence by acquiring Navigant Consulting in 2019, more than doubling in size and extending into the commercial sector.

Today, Guidehouse employs more than 18,000 professionals across 55 offices worldwide, delivering advisory, technology, and managed services that help organizations improve efficiency, compliance, and resilience.

The firm serves both public sector and commercial clients, specializing in industries that operate under heavy regulation or require specialized expertise. These include:

• Healthcare and life sciences - guiding providers, payers, and biopharma companies on transformation and cost optimization.
• Energy, sustainability, and infrastructure - helping clients transition to clean energy and sustainable operations.
• Financial services - supporting institutions with risk management, compliance, and digital transformation.
• Defense and national security - providing strategic, operational, and cybersecurity support for government agencies.

Guidehouse’s consulting model combines strategy and execution, enabling clients to design long-term growth plans and implement real-world solutions. Unlike traditional firms that separate advisory and delivery, Guidehouse blends both offering end-to-end services that move from vision to measurable impact.

The firm’s growth philosophy is anchored in innovation and partnership. By integrating advanced analytics, digital solutions, and sector-specific expertise, Guidehouse helps clients achieve sustainable outcomes in an increasingly complex environment.

In short, Guidehouse Consulting operates at the intersection of strategy, risk, and technology, empowering organizations to make smarter decisions and drive lasting change.

Guidehouse History and Growth Journey

Guidehouse was founded in 2018 when PwC sold its U.S. public sector consulting division to Veritas Capital, forming a new independent firm focused on risk, technology, and strategy consulting. One year later, Guidehouse expanded significantly through its acquisition of Navigant Consulting, a move that doubled its size and added deep expertise in healthcare, energy, and financial services.

Since then, Guidehouse has grown into one of the largest global consulting firms serving both government and commercial clients. Its growth has been driven by a focus on highly regulated industries, digital transformation, and mission-driven consulting. The firm’s balanced portfolio allows it to serve organizations seeking both strategic guidance and operational execution.

Under the leadership of Scott McIntyre (CEO), Guidehouse has established a strong reputation for trust, innovation, and impact. It operates more than 55 offices across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, generating annual revenues exceeding $3 billion.

Key milestones in Guidehouse’s journey include:

• 2018 - Formation following PwC’s public sector divestiture
• 2019 - Acquisition of Navigant Consulting, expanding into commercial sectors
• 2020–2023 - Expansion into energy transition, sustainability, and managed services
• 2024–2025 - Continued growth through digital, risk, and cybersecurity practices

This evolution reflects Guidehouse’s mission to bridge public and private sector expertise, positioning the firm as a trusted advisor for clients navigating complex regulatory, financial, and technological environments.

Guidehouse Practice Areas and Industries Served

Guidehouse offers a diverse range of consulting services that combine strategic insight, operational expertise, and digital innovation. The firm’s core practice areas focus on helping organizations improve performance, manage risk, and achieve long-term transformation across both public and private sectors.

Key practice areas include:

• Risk, Regulatory, and Compliance: Helping clients strengthen governance frameworks and meet complex regulatory requirements.
• Technology Solutions: Delivering digital transformation, cybersecurity, and advanced analytics services.
• Sustainability and Infrastructure: Supporting organizations in their transition toward clean energy and resilient infrastructure.
• Financial Crime Solutions: Advising financial institutions on fraud prevention, anti-money laundering, and investigative services.
• Operational Effectiveness and Managed Services: Streamlining business operations and managing day-to-day processes for clients.

These practice areas enable Guidehouse to deliver end-to-end support from strategic planning to hands-on implementation. The firm emphasizes collaboration and practical outcomes, ensuring clients can move from vision to measurable results.

Guidehouse serves a wide spectrum of industries, including:

• Healthcare and Life Sciences: Guiding healthcare systems, biopharma companies, and payers on market access and transformation.
• Financial Services: Advising banks, insurers, and regulators on compliance, operations, and digital innovation.
• Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure: Partnering with clients to advance renewable energy, environmental resilience, and smart infrastructure projects.
• Defense and National Security: Supporting agencies with cybersecurity, logistics, and intelligence modernization.
• Public Sector: Providing strategic and technical expertise to federal, state, and local governments to enhance mission delivery.

By combining industry specialization with cross-sector experience, Guidehouse delivers tailored solutions that help clients adapt to changing markets and regulations. This integrated approach has positioned the firm as a trusted advisor in both government and commercial consulting.

Where Are Guidehouse Offices Located Worldwide?

Guidehouse has established a strong global presence with more than 55 offices across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The firm’s strategic office network allows it to serve both public and private sector clients efficiently while maintaining local expertise and global collaboration.

In the Americas, Guidehouse operates dozens of offices throughout the United States, including key hubs in Washington DC, Chicago, and New York, as well as a presence in Toronto, Canada. These locations primarily support federal agencies, healthcare systems, and financial clients.

In Europe, Guidehouse has offices in the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Lithuania, serving clients in energy, sustainability, and financial regulation. Its London and Berlin offices act as anchors for the firm’s European operations.

The Middle East division includes offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, focusing on government transformation and infrastructure development. Meanwhile, in Asia, Guidehouse maintains offices in India and South Korea, supporting technology, analytics, and operations delivery.

Guidehouse’s global footprint reflects its commitment to combining local understanding with global scale. This approach enables the firm to collaborate seamlessly across regions and deliver consistent quality regardless of geography.

What Is the Career Path at Guidehouse Consulting?

The career path at Guidehouse Consulting follows a structured progression that supports professional development, increasing responsibility, and leadership growth. Each level builds essential consulting skills and prepares employees for the next stage in their careers.

Typical career levels include:

• Consultant: Entry-level role for recent graduates and early professionals focused on client research, analysis, and problem-solving.
• Senior Consultant: Takes on greater client engagement, manages project components, and mentors junior team members.
• Managing Consultant: Leads project teams and oversees end-to-end delivery, balancing client expectations and outcomes.
• Associate Director: Manages multiple projects, contributes to business development, and strengthens client relationships.
• Director: Provides strategic leadership, develops industry expertise, and drives new business initiatives.
• Partner: Senior leadership responsible for firm growth, client success, and thought leadership.

At each stage, Guidehouse emphasizes mentorship, training, and collaboration. Consultants have access to learning programs and certifications that enhance both technical and leadership capabilities.

Employees can move laterally between practices or industries to diversify experience. This flexibility allows individuals to explore risk management, technology, or sustainability while staying within the Guidehouse ecosystem.

Career growth at Guidehouse is merit-based, rewarding high performance and initiative. The firm’s transparent evaluation process encourages continuous feedback and supports long-term career planning.

Entry Points and Hiring Programs at Guidehouse

Guidehouse offers multiple entry pathways for aspiring consultants, each designed to attract diverse backgrounds and professional experiences. Candidates can join through early-career, experienced-hire, or veteran-focused programs depending on their profile.

1. Campus and Early-Career Hiring: Undergraduates and recent graduates can apply for consultant roles through campus recruiting or internship conversion. These programs emphasize analytical skills, teamwork, and problem-solving.

2. Experienced Professionals: Guidehouse recruits professionals with prior consulting or industry experience to fill specialized roles in technology, risk, or operations. These hires often bring domain expertise that strengthens project delivery.

3. Military and Veteran Hiring: The firm actively partners with veteran organizations to help former service members transition into consulting careers. Veterans benefit from structured onboarding and mentorship programs tailored to leadership and mission-driven work.

Guidehouse also runs diversity and inclusion programs such as the Pan-Asian, LatinX, and Women’s Inclusion Networks, creating equitable access for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

Applicants can apply online or through university networks, with recruitment typically occurring throughout the year. The firm looks for candidates who demonstrate adaptability, curiosity, and collaborative spirit key traits for success in consulting.

Guidehouse Internships and Student Opportunities

Guidehouse offers structured internship programs that give students hands-on consulting experience across industries like healthcare, energy, and financial services. These 8–10 week programs are designed to help participants understand real client work, build analytical skills, and explore potential full-time roles.

Interns collaborate with project teams on live engagements, supporting research, data analysis, and client presentations. The program also includes professional development sessions, mentorship opportunities, and networking with senior leaders.

Outstanding interns often receive full-time return offers, making the internship a key entry point for a consulting career.

To apply, students typically submit applications through university career portals or the Guidehouse careers site. Applicants should highlight problem-solving ability, leadership, and communication skills.

The firm’s internship experience is known for its collaborative environment and exposure to real consulting challenges helping participants decide whether consulting aligns with their long-term goals.

Guidehouse Interview Process and Tips for Candidates

The Guidehouse interview process typically involves two rounds designed to evaluate problem-solving ability, communication, and cultural fit. While case interviews are less common, candidates should still be prepared for behavioral and situational questions.

Round 1: Usually conducted virtually or on campus, this stage includes one or two interviews focusing on your background, motivation for consulting, and understanding of Guidehouse’s work.

Round 2: Held in person at a Guidehouse office, the final round features multiple interviews with senior consultants or directors. These assess leadership potential, teamwork, and industry awareness.

Common interview questions include:

• Why are you interested in Guidehouse Consulting?
• Describe a challenging project you worked on.
• How do you manage conflict in a team setting?
• What skills make you a strong consultant?

To prepare effectively, research the firm’s industries and services, review your resume stories using the STAR method, and practice clear, structured communication.

Candidates are encouraged to ask questions about firm culture, mentorship, and career growth to demonstrate engagement and alignment with Guidehouse’s values.

How Much Does Guidehouse Pay Its Consultants?

Guidehouse salaries are competitive with other mid-tier consulting firms, varying by position, degree level, and region. Entry-level consultants typically earn around $75,000 annually, with performance bonuses and benefits included.

Estimated salary ranges by level:

• Consultant (Undergraduate): $70,000 to $80,000
• Senior Consultant (MBA or equivalent): $130,000 to $150,000
• Managing Consultant: $160,000 to $180,000
• Director and Above: $200,000+ with significant performance bonuses

Compensation also depends on location and specialization. For instance, consultants in high-cost markets such as Washington DC or New York may earn slightly more.

Guidehouse also provides health benefits, paid time off, retirement contributions, and professional development reimbursements.

While salaries may not match MBB levels, the firm offers strong career progression, consistent bonuses, and balanced workloads, making it an attractive option for long-term growth.

Guidehouse Consulting Culture and Work-Life Balance

Guidehouse Consulting promotes a collaborative, mission-driven culture that values diversity, inclusion, and professional growth. The firm’s environment is shaped by its public sector heritage and private sector innovation.

Employees highlight strong relationships with management, meaningful client work, and an emphasis on integrity. While hours can be demanding during peak projects, Guidehouse strives to maintain flexibility and support work-life balance through remote options and wellness programs.

The firm’s Inclusion and Diversity Networks including the Women’s, Black, LatinX, and Veteran networks provide spaces for connection, mentorship, and advocacy.

Employee surveys consistently report high satisfaction, with roughly 80 percent of staff describing Guidehouse as a great place to work. The firm has also been recognized by Forbes and Diversity Inc for its commitment to equality and employee well-being.

For candidates who value purpose-driven consulting and a supportive environment, Guidehouse offers a balanced and inclusive workplace where ambition and collaboration thrive.

Exit Opportunities and Career Progression After Guidehouse

Consultants leaving Guidehouse often transition into leadership roles across industries such as healthcare, energy, financial services, and government. Common exit paths include corporate strategy, risk management, and operations leadership positions.

Former employees also move to other consulting firms, policy organizations, or technology companies, leveraging their analytical and project management experience.

The firm’s diverse project exposure and strong client network create a foundation for flexible career transitions. Alumni frequently cite transferable skills in stakeholder management, communication, and digital transformation as key assets.

Guidehouse’s reputation for integrity and analytical rigor ensures that its consultants remain competitive across sectors, opening doors to a wide range of post-consulting opportunities.

Awards, Recognition, and Guidehouse Highlights

Guidehouse has been consistently recognized for its culture, inclusion, and industry leadership. The firm has appeared on several prominent lists that validate its strong reputation and employee trust.

Notable awards include:

• Forbes: Ranked among America’s Best Mid-Size Employers
• Vault: Named a Top 50 Consulting Firm
• Human Rights Campaign: Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality
• DiversityInc: Listed among the Top 50 Noteworthy Companies for Diversity
• Great Place to Work Certification: Achieved for its employee engagement and inclusive culture

Guidehouse also contributes over 7,000 volunteer hours annually and donates more than $1 million to community initiatives worldwide. These achievements reflect the firm’s commitment to impact beyond consulting, reinforcing its credibility and social responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Guidehouse Consulting do?
A: Guidehouse Consulting provides management and technology consulting services to public and private sector clients, specializing in risk management, digital transformation, and sustainability solutions.

Q: How hard is it to get hired at Guidehouse?
A: Getting hired at Guidehouse can be competitive, as candidates are evaluated on problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills through behavioral interviews and case-style assessments.

Q: Does Guidehouse pay well?
A: Guidehouse pays competitively for a mid-tier consulting firm, with consultant salaries typically ranging from $70,000 to $180,000 depending on level, experience, and location.

Q: Is Guidehouse part of PwC?
A: Guidehouse was formed in 2018 when PwC sold its U.S. public sector consulting division to Veritas Capital, creating an independent consulting firm.

Q: Who are Guidehouse’s clients?
A: Guidehouse’s clients include government agencies, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and energy companies seeking strategy, risk, and sustainability consulting expertise.