Announcements

International Consultants Day 2026 Highlights the Future of Consulting Competence and Thought Leadership

4 June 2026

The International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI) proudly celebrated International Consultants Day 2026, bringing together management consultants, industry leaders, and professional institutes from around the world under the theme: “Mastering the Storm: Precision Strategy and the Future of Consulting Competence.”

Observed annually on the first Thursday of June, International Consultants Day recognizes the critical role management consultants play in helping organizations navigate uncertainty, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. This year's global celebration focused on the evolving capabilities required for consultants to lead in an increasingly complex, technology-enabled, and rapidly changing business environment.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the new global White Paper, Mastering the Storm: Precision Strategy and the Future of Consulting Competence, presented by Robert Bodenstein CMC®, Chief Editor. The White Paper explores the forces reshaping the consulting profession and outlines the competencies, mindsets, and strategic approaches required for consultants to remain trusted advisors in the years ahead.

The event also featured the introduction of the ICMCI Code for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in Management Consulting, presented by Nick Warn CMC®, ICMCI Chair, providing practical guidance for consultants on the ethical, responsible, transparent, and accountable use of AI technologies. The Code reinforces the profession's commitment to maintaining trust, professional judgment, and client confidence while embracing the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.

In addition, Celal Seckin CMC®, Chair of the ICMCI Professional Development and Standards Committee, unveiled the updated ICMCI Competence Framework, reflecting the changing expectations of consultants operating in a digital, data-driven, and sustainability-focused environment. The revised framework strengthens the foundation for professional development, certification, and continuous learning across the global consulting community.

The event also marked the release of the 2026 National Consulting Index (NCI®) Summary Report, providing valuable insights into the state of the management consulting profession across participating countries and regions. The report highlights key trends, market developments, emerging client priorities, and the evolving role of consultants in supporting economic growth, organizational transformation, and sustainable value creation. The NCI® continues to serve as an important benchmark for understanding the profession's impact and future direction on a global scale.

Speaking to participants from across the world, ICMCI leaders emphasized that the consulting profession must continue evolving to address emerging challenges while maintaining the highest standards of competence, ethics, and professionalism.

“These initiatives demonstrate ICMCI's commitment to preparing consultants for the future while preserving the principles that underpin trusted advisory services,” said Nick Warn CMC®, ICMCI Chair. “From strategic foresight and consulting competence to responsible AI adoption, the profession must continue to lead organizations through uncertainty with confidence and integrity.”

Since its establishment by ICMCI in 2005, International Consultants Day has served as a global celebration of the management consulting profession and its contribution to economic development, organizational performance, innovation, and societal progress. The day also highlights the value of the globally recognized Certified Management Consultant (CMC®) designation and the importance of maintaining rigorous professional standards.
As the global voice of the management consulting profession, ICMCI continues to advance excellence, competence, ethics, and trust through its worldwide network of member institutes and certified professionals.

About ICMCI
The International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI) is a global organization representing management consulting institutes and professional bodies worldwide. Through the Certified Management Consultant (CMC®) designation, international standards, and thought leadership initiatives, ICMCI promotes excellence, ethics, competence, and professionalism in management consulting.

For more information:
www.cmc-global.org
Media Contact: ICMCI Secretariat
Email: cmc-global@cmc-global.org