A diversity approach for managing talent in MNCs : A multiple case study of the consultancy industry

Abstract: Globalization and demographic changes are posing new challenges for firms that compete for superior human capital resources, and this ‘war for talent’ is especially fierce among MNCs whose main asset is knowledge, like the consultancy industry. As the demand for future leaders increases, it is essential for such firms to ensure an efficient flow of diverse talent through the whole organization. Previous research has mainly treated diversity management and talent management separately, despite the fact that the two concepts are interrelated. This thesis aims to close this gap by exploring how global consultancies incorporate diversity into their talent management practices. By combining in-depth interviews and secondary data from three case companies, conclusions were drawn regarding the views and outcomes of diversity and through which practices the concept was integrated with the management of talents. Some interesting findings were that the main diversity focus was concentrated on gender issues and that global talent management was not highly prioritized in the participating case firms. With regards to talent management, the most highlighted strategy for achieving diversity was by focusing on attracting employees from different diverse groups.