Annie Furr

Bain & Company Chicago

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

MBA program: Kellogg School of Management, Finance

Undergraduate school, major: Vassar College, International Studies

Focus of current case: Industrials project focused on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions for one of the largest private companies in the world.

Why did you choose to work at Bain? I wanted to be at a firm that was fully committed to its clients, people, and community. Bain showed me that across the board. People at Bain view clients as partners, with the firm even putting a portion of fees “at risk” until promised results are achieved. When I was going through recruiting, everyone talked about their hobbies, friends and families with the same excitement that they talked about their projects, case teams and Bain traditions. Coming from a nonprofit background, I was inspired by how people didn’t feel like the Bain community was confined to the office. From volunteering with a charter school graduation ceremony to fund-raising for an LGBTQ+ youth center, I’ve been able to get involved with Bain in the Chicago community.

What did you love about the business school you attended? The commitment to learning from each other by learning about each other. From “Hear My Story” events to small group dinners, Kellogg students are curious about their peers on a personal level. I’ve found the same to be true at Bain—I recently served on a “brown bag lunch” panel about LGBTQ+ history and how it has influenced my identity. Nearly 100 people attended across all levels and identities.

What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learned so far at Bain? I’ve learned to ask for input early and often. Coming out of Kellogg, I was used to getting projects into an almost “fully baked” state before asking for feedback. At Bain, when you are working in a completely new industry, or with someone who has more experience than you, touching base early keeps you focused on the most important parts of the problem. I had to learn that asking for guidance isn’t a sign of not knowing what you’re doing, it is a critical part of adding value for our clients.

Which manager or peer has had the biggest impact on you at Bain, and how has he or she made you a better consultant? The partner on my summer internship case, Sasha, was hugely influential in my development at Bain. After sharing that I wanted to develop my presentation skills, Sasha had me in front of our client during my second week on the case. His feedback, and that of my team, coming out of the presentation taught me an early and valuable lesson: it doesn’t matter how correct and in-depth your analysis is if it doesn’t convince the client. Ever since, I’ve focused on making materials both persuasive and informative.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work for Bain? Be your authentic self in the process. It is not to your benefit to recruit as one person and show up as another. The only fit you should be trying to achieve is one that lets you bring your true self to work every day. Talk and ask questions about the industries and initiatives you are passionate about. Tease out the parts of the firm that matter most to you and, just like me, you’ll find a place at Bain that feels like home.

A fun fact about me people would be surprised to know is…My college a cappella group performed in the competition Pitch Perfect is based on. I’ve since taken my talents to… Bain Chicago, getting onstage during my summer internship and joining the office band.