The culture falls far short of what’s promised. Within the European team, a toxic dynamic, largely driven by the partner group, has taken hold. Gossip, backstabbing, favoritism, and personal biases run deep. Partners shy away from giving open, honest feedback, instead choosing to badmouth individuals privately to select consultants. Some consultants regularly spread subtle rumors about teammates, and rather than stopping it, partners not only allow it, they reward it. As a result, a small “inner circle” gets consistent preferential treatment on projects, even when they lack the necessary skills. Meanwhile, others put in extraordinary effort with little recognition. It’s deeply disappointing.