Barton Partnership Reveals Consulting Partner Compensation and Career Trends
News related to:The Barton Partnership · 2 min read
LONDON, Oct. 19, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Barton Partnership, a specialist strategic talent solutions provider, has released findings from a survey of 725 consulting partners across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The survey, part of the firm's 2026 Partner Compensation Reports, reveals that while consulting partners expect their pay to increase, a significant portion of them are considering a move to roles outside consulting.
According to the report, 60% of partners in North America and APAC, and 53% in Europe, anticipate a rise in their compensation over the next 12 months. This follows a year where 84% of European partners and 75% of their North American counterparts did not experience a reduction in earnings. However, up to a third of these partners are open to leaving their consulting roles within the next three years, with corporate leadership positions being the most likely next step.
In Europe, 27% of partners cite reduced confidence in the consulting model as their primary reason for considering a move, while 24% point to pay concerns. In North America, both factors are equally important. In APAC, 23% of partners are considering a move, with 27% citing pay as a reason and 25% citing the consulting model.
Corporate general management roles are the most likely next step for partners considering a change, with 27% to 29% of respondents in each region expressing interest. A move to another consulting firm is the second most popular option, with 21% to 27% of partners considering this path. Operating Partner roles, which help private equity firms improve the companies they own, and Chief Transformation Officer roles also attract 12% to 16% of partners.
AI has become a critical challenge for consulting partners, with 71% of North American, 69% of European, and 64% of APAC partners citing it as a significant issue. This shift in priorities is reshaping the industry, and firms are increasingly focused on how they hire, integrate, and retain consulting partners.
The reports also provide benchmark partner compensation by firm type, tenure, sub-region, and ownership structure, alongside equity structures, attrition rates, working practices, and benefits in each market. These insights are valuable for firms looking to understand the dynamics of the consulting partner market and adapt their strategies accordingly.