More than 280 finalists and clients from leading organisations gathered at Lancaster House for the largest MCA Awards Finalists Reception ever held, sponsored by Capgemini Invent. The event brought together representatives from over 50 consulting firms, alongside clients from 100 top organisations, national media, government officials, and of course, the finalists themselves, ahead of the November awards ceremony in London.
This year’s reception marked a significant moment in the MCA Awards’ history, reflecting the growing visibility and recognition of the consulting sector across the UK. Organisations championing the role of consultancy include Bupa, Whitbread, Warner Brothers, AstraZeneca, Tesco, Volkswagen, and Sainsbury’s. Finalists represent a broad mix of MCA Member Firms, with strong participation from both large and medium-sized firms, while smaller firms continue to impress, securing 50% of finalist entries. The finalist cohort includes project teams and individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and career stages—apprentices, technology consultants, thought leaders, and experienced hires who have transitioned into consulting as a second career.
The MCA Awards 2025 finalists demonstrate how consulting continues to play a vital role in supporting UK organisations through change and complexity. From digital transformation and AI deployment to sustainability and public sector reform, the entries reflect the sector’s ability to help clients navigate challenges and deliver meaningful results. Projects such as Whitbread’s booking platform overhaul, Warner Bros Discovery’s back-office modernisation, and the NHS Federated Data Platform show how consultants are contributing to operational resilience, improved services, and innovation. These examples highlight the sector’s relevance and adaptability in a fast-changing environment.
Speaking at the reception, Tamzen Isacsson, Chief Executive of the Management Consultancies Association, said:
“At the heart of this sector are our people—people with expertise, experience, talent, passions, dreams, and determination. Those are the qualities that shine through in the interviews—the human qualities of consultants. They are the power behind this growth-driving sector and they’re what make these Awards so special.
Being nominated for an accolade like this really means something. Not just within our industry but far beyond it. So, to everyone who has been shortlisted, to the people who embody that quality and excellence, you deserve a huge congratulations.”
Alex Slater, Managing Director of Capgemini Invent, added:
“Against a backdrop of volatility—inflation, tariffs, supply chain risks, AI disruption, sustainability targets, workforce upheaval and more—our clients need help more than ever before. They want that help but are under more pressure than ever to prove value for every penny spent.”
This year’s charity partner is Honeypot, the only UK charity dedicated to providing continuous support for young carers. These are children who care for family members with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or mental health challenges—often sacrificing their own wellbeing and childhood in the process. Honeypot offers these children a lifeline: residential respite breaks, wellbeing support, and early intervention programmes that help reduce stress, build confidence, and reverse educational setbacks. For nearly 30 years, Honeypot has helped thousands of young carers across England, Wales and Scotland to create joyful memories and build brighter futures. Their work is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, community, and opportunity. More information and donation details can be found at https://www.honeypot.org.uk.
The reception was held at Lancaster House, a residence steeped in history and grandeur, managed by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Commissioned in 1825 by the Duke of York, this iconic building—originally known as York House—has long been a hub of political and social life. In the very room where the reception was held—the Long Gallery—Winston Churchill hosted a coronation banquet for the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II over 70 years ago. It was a fitting setting to honour the finest leaders in consulting, whose achievements represent the pinnacle of industry excellence.
More information on the awards, including the MCA Awards 2026, is at www.mca.org.uk/awards