Dhairya Shrivastava, a consultant in Bain & Company’s New Delhi office, is bridging the worlds of medicine and consulting to drive meaningful change. In this Q&A, she shares how her medical background fuels her work in public health and medical research, helping clients navigate complex challenges and create lasting impact in healthcare.

How has Bain supported you in your career?

Bain has provided an exceptional environment for both personal and professional growth. Transitioning from clinical medicine and medical research into consulting could have been challenging, but the firm’s mentorship and resources have made this shift seamless. Bain’s commitment to professional development stands out. Regular professional development (PD) chats provide valuable feedback and tailored career guidance. In-class and global training sessions ensure we stay up to date with industry trends and best practices, enhancing our consulting and industry-specific expertise.

What I appreciate most is Bain’s focus on diversity of thought. The firm encourages everyone to bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table, ensuring that diverse ideas contribute to innovative client solutions. My medical expertise has been valued, and I’ve had the opportunity to act as a thought leader on relevant projects. Peer learning and teamwork are at the core of Bain’s culture, creating an environment where we constantly learn from each other’s experiences. This collaborative and inclusive approach has been instrumental in helping me pursue my passion for healthcare innovation while thriving in a consulting environment.

Do you have a Bain experience that’s meaningful for you?

Early in my first year at Bain, I faced a family health situation that required my attention and time. I was concerned about balancing personal commitments with the demands of a consulting role, but the staffing team was incredibly supportive. They not only ensured that I had flexible hours but also assigned me to internal projects and cases that allowed for more manageable work commitments during that period.

This level of support, especially as a new-joiner, was invaluable and underscored Bain’s commitment to the well-being of its people. It showed me that Bain truly prioritizes its employees’ personal lives while ensuring they can still contribute meaningfully to the firm.

Do you have any hobbies or unique skills outside of work that have fed back into your experiences at Bain?

A significant passion of mine outside of work is continuing my medical research and contributing to public health literature. I regularly work on research papers and have been fortunate to publish chapters in cardiology books alongside my consulting role. This ongoing engagement with academic research has provided a unique perspective at Bain, especially in healthcare-related cases. It helps me stay up to date with the latest medical advancements and ensures that I bring a research-backed, evidence-based approach to client engagements.

This skill not only adds depth to the solutions I offer but also helps me bridge the gap between clinical expertise and business strategy, benefiting both my clients and my own professional development.

How has your experience at Bain impacted your work and mindset?

Bain has been instrumental in shaping the way I approach problem-solving, which has had a profound impact on my research and consulting work. The structured frameworks like "Answer First," the 80/20 rule, and Bain’s focus on clear, impactful communication have significantly enhanced my ability to conduct and present research. Whether it's synthesizing complex data in cardiology studies or formulating strategies for healthcare & pharma clients, these tools help me work efficiently and effectively.

Consulting at Bain not only sharpens your analytical skills but also instills a mindset that is invaluable in translating insights into practical solutions—skills that have proven equally beneficial in my academic and research pursuits.

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