From outcome-driven insights to an electric evening gala, Consulting Magazine honors the next generation of advisory leaders in Chicago.
The future of the consulting industry gathered at The Midland Hotel in Chicago this past Thursday for Consulting Magazine's 2026 Rising Stars of the Profession Awards. The event, now in its 13th year, honors the most promising young talent in the advisory world and serves as recognition of the innovation, drive, and commercial acumen defining the next era of consulting.
Before the evening's celebrations attendees participated in the Rising Stars Professional Series, an intensive thought-leadership program themed "Outcomes First: The Next Generation of Advisors." The afternoon program featured three rapid-fire lightning talks followed by a deep-dive panel discussion moderated by Consulting Magazine Director Michael Webb.
Industry experts John Norkus, founder, ChiefPricingOfficer.com, Marissa Bowman, Chief Customer Officer, Moonnox, and Andrea Mac, Growth Strategist, Founder, Salesy led sessions tackling the most pressing opportunities for early-career professionals. The topics ranged from value pricing and transforming AI prompts into polished deliverables, to practical steps for aspiring professionals to transition from mere billable performers into respected rainmakers.
The overall program takeaway was this: today's clients buy outcomes, not hours. To succeed, the next generation of leaders must be equipped with the strategic tools to act as true partners rather than mere task executors.
As the afternoon programming wrapped, the focus on professional acceleration transitioned to a vibrant evening of celebration in recognition of the Rising Stars class of 2026. Colleagues, mentors, and industry veterans gathered to toast and applaud their exceptional client service, leadership, and industry contributions. The atmoshere was filled with sense of optimism and pride as each award was presented, underscoring the incredible talent driving the industry forward.
"The energy and intellect in the room were truly remarkable," noted Webb. "These honorees are not waiting for the future; they are actively building it. It is an absolute privilege to shine a spotlight on a group of professionals who have achieved so much and driven such profound impact so early in their careers."
As the consulting landscape continues to shift toward outcome-based models, Thursday's events proved that the 2026 Rising Stars are more than ready to lead the charge.
To see the full roster of this year's standout professionals, we invite you to view the complete list of our 2026 Rising Stars of the Profession honorees here.
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