EP21 – Expanding Our Toolkits: Taking Our PhDs Into Strategy Consulting

Reflecting on a year of conversations, Keith Bevans and Daniel Yellin revisit the ideas shaping Bain today. From technology to talent, they reflect on what the firm has accomplished this year while looking head to the next. Listeners, we'd love to hear from you! Have any recommendations or ideas for the show? Reach out to us at [email protected].

Simran Ahuja and Taylor Williams journeys to and through Bain couldn’t be more different. From early career pivots and global moves to building skills and discovering unexpected passions, they share how each chapter shaped why they continue to stay and grow within their career at Bain. As mentioned in the episode, Simran also brings her passion for business and career storytelling to life through the content she creates on Instagram (@successfullyyoursbysimran), where she shares insights and advice with an engaged community. Listen and explore how your journey could grow here, too.

Consultants John Kunzo III and Meghan Allman share their paths from growing up in Cleveland to joining Bain Chicago. John discovered consulting through Bain’s Building Entrepreneurial Leaders (BEL) program while studying sociology at the University of Chicago, and Meghan explains how she translated her love of sports analytics at Notre Dame into strategy work full-time. With perspectives on authenticity, staying curious, and building community, this episode explores a question everyone who joins our firm considers: Why Bain?

In this episode of Beyond the Bio, Keith Bevans and Daniel Yellin gather advice from Bain consultants who recently went through recruiting, offering candid tips on staying authentic, intentional, and even enjoying the process. Their reflections provide a reassuring, practical guide for candidates considering Bain.  With candid reflections, practical advice, and even a few bonus clips at the end, this episode offers a thoughtful, reassuring perspective for anyone preparing to take the next step in their career journey with Bain. 

Senior Manager Daniel Yellin shares his journey from aspiring aerospace engineer to Bain consultant, shaped by curiosity and a love for learning. He reflects on what drew him to Bain, including the firm’s leadership development, collaborative culture, and the vibrant community in the Atlanta office. Now balancing life as a new parent, Daniel opens up about how Bain’s flexibility and support continue to make it the right place to grow.

Florian Muller shares his journey from growing up in Berlin with a global perspective to leading Bain’s AI, Insights, and Solutions practice in EMEA. He discusses how early interests in technology and business evolved into a career focused on AI and innovation. Hear how Florian is helping clients scale AI solutions through integrated teams and strategic execution.

Sarah Elk shares her journey from environmental engineering to leading Bain’s AI, Insights, and Solutions practice in the Americas. She reflects on her path through multiple industries, her passion for transformation, and how she’s helping clients embed AI into core strategy. Hear how Sarah is bridging technology and organizational change to drive scalable, lasting impact.

Richard Fleming’s career spans continents and industries, driven by his passion for technology and making an impact. From building roads in Africa to leading Bain’s AI, Insights, & Solutions practice in APAC, he shares how personal goals, global experiences, and a deep curiosity for AI have shaped his journey. Hear how Richard is helping clients turn strategy into action through cutting-edge innovation. 

Eric Sheng, Bain’s Global Lead of Data Science and Machine Learning Engineering Group, shares how his passion for technology led him to leading AI innovation across industries. From early roles at HP and NVIDIA to shaping strategic solutions at Bain, he reflects on the power of technical depth, curiosity, and real-world impact.

Chuck Whitten, Global Head of Bain’s digital capabilities, shares his journey from consulting to leading digital transformation at scale. He discusses how these capabilities integrate AI, data science, and enterprise technology into business strategy, helping companies solve their toughest challenges. With insights on Bain’s partnerships with OpenAI and Microsoft, as well as the future of AI-driven disruption, this episode explores how companies can leverage technology to redefine their industries.