Reference

Marvin Bower played a pivotal role in shaping and professionalizing the consulting industry after World War II. As a significant figure at McKinsey & Company, he contributed to the transformation of management consulting from a nascent field into a respected profession with established standards and ethics. Here are key contributions Bower made:

1. Professionalism and Ethics: Bower emphasized high professional standards and strict adherence to ethical practices. He believed that management consultants should serve their clients with integrity and prioritize the clients' interests.

2. Expansion and Influence: Under Bower’s leadership, McKinsey expanded its reach globally, establishing new offices and becoming an influential player in advising major corporations.

3. Development of Consulting Tools: Bower contributed to the development of various consulting methodologies and tools that enabled systematic and analytical approaches to problem-solving in organizations.

4. Strategic Focus: He shifted the focus of consulting from mere business advice to strategic management and organizational improvement. This broadened the scope of consultancy work and significantly increased its value to clients.

Bower's vision and leadership were fundamental in legitimizing the consulting profession, which now plays a crucial role in corporate strategy and operations worldwide.

For a more detailed perspective, references and further reading include:

• The New York Times Obituary
• McKinsey's Marvin Bower: Vision, Leadership, and the Creation of Modern Management Consulting
• Harvard Business School’s profile on Marvin Bower