I submitted a CV, passed the McKinsey Solve problem solving test, and had four interviews. The first two interviews were back-to-back. The interviewers didn't ask the McKinsey PEI questions that I was told to expect by HR. Instead, they asked cultural fit questions, asked questions about my experience, and gave one case study. The third interviewer was disinterested; they acted like they had been dragged into the interview process and had better things to do. They asked one competency question on handling difficult clients who disagreed with you, and gave a case study. I have experience in the area on which the case study was based, and was able to provide informed answers. However, the interviewer was seeking a specific answer, so my answers were moot. Oddly, I got the impression that the interviewer may not have had much experience in this field (the solution was exactly what the sector tries to avoid to prevent greenwashing). Admittedly, I did not build rapport with this interviewer. The fourth interviewer seemed to have already made their decision before the interview. My relationship with the third interviewer clearly held more weight than my performance in the first two interviews. This interviewer humoured me, though. They asked me some cultural fit questions, questions about my experience, one competency question about working in a team, and gave two case studies. The last two interviewers didn't seem inclusive -- I got a whiff of a 'gossip' culture from these two interviewers. In addition, I was told by HR that the interviews would follow the standard McKinsey process, and that the case study would represent projects delivered by Vivid Economics. The case studies did reflect Vivid Economics, but the interviews did not reflect McKinsey (I've previously interviewed at McKinsey, but declined the offer for another role). Preparing for a McKinsey-style interview might help in general, but won't be necessary. Given the plethora of cultural fit questions and how the case study exercises were given, Vivid Economics are looking for people like them. Four weeks later, I have yet to hear back.

HR was very efficient in terms of getting back and setting up the tech. Most interviewers were mostly warm and encouraging. First round went off quite well. However, engagement manager in second round was quite disinterested and rude at some points. Even if you don't like a candidate, no need to make them feel bad. Second round was a bit of car crash because of that. On reflection, those who were original Vivid reflected good values. Whereas those from typical Big4 consultancy background had the stereotypical behaviour. Will be interesting to see how Vivid manages to retain their culture. Practice case studies very very well. They are the dominant part of the interview. Rest is CV based/behavioural.