Protiviti: A Global Leader in Consulting and Innovation

Protiviti Inc. is a global consulting firm headquartered in Menlo Park and San Ramon, California. Established in 2002, it specializes in internal audit, risk and compliance, technology, business processes, data analytics, and finance. As a subsidiary of Robert Half, Protiviti operates through a network of over 85 locations across more than 27 countries. The firm has a significant client base, serving over 80% of Fortune 100 companies, and is consistently recognized as one of the world's leading management consulting firms. Protiviti is also noted for its workplace culture, having been listed among the "100 Best Companies to Work For" by Fortune Magazine for eight consecutive years from 2015 to 2022.

1. Protiviti Overview

About

AttributeDetails
Industry Type Professional Services
Founded2002
HeadquartersCalifornia, United States

History

Early Years (2002 – 2007)

  • 2002: Protiviti was founded in April through an agreement between Robert Half and Arthur Andersen, starting with 760 employees, including 59 partners from Andersen. The firm launched its “Say i to Protiviti” marketing campaign in June, emphasizing auditor independence.
  • 2003: Celebrated its first anniversary in May and launched the SarbOx Portal in June to aid corporate governance compliance.
  • 2004: Achieved over $100 million in revenue by December and gifted iPods to employees to commemorate this milestone.
  • 2005: Acquired Lender Advisory Services in July, expanding its service offerings.
  • 2006: Expanded further through acquisitions, including Creative Options and Radius, and established Protiviti Government Services.
  • 2007: Acquired PENTA Advisory Services and celebrated its five-year anniversary.

Recession & Repositioning (2008 – 2010)

  • 2008: The global financial crisis prompted Protiviti to issue the “Financial Crisis Bulletin” for client guidance and was recognized as a “Best Place to Launch a Career” by BusinessWeek.
  • 2009: Cory Gunderson became the first employee named to Consulting magazine’s ‘Top 25 Consultants’ list.
  • 2010: Hosted its first Intern Challenge and received multiple awards for excellence in service.

Resilience (2011 – 2015)

  • 2011: Notable for receiving recognition as one of the “Best Places to Work for Recent Grads.”
  • 2012: Celebrated its 10-year anniversary and acquired SusQtech to enhance SharePoint services.
  • 2013: Named among Achievers’ “50 Most Engaged Workplaces.”
  • 2014: Launched the U.S. Intern Day of Service and the global i on Hunger initiative.
  • 2015: Made it to Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for the first time and surpassed $200 million in quarterly revenue.

Recent Developments (2016 – Present)

  • 2016: Ranked #57 on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.”
  • 2019: Revenue exceeded $1 billion for the first time in its history.
  • 2020: Expanded into Europe with new offices in Switzerland and Germany.
  • 2022: Launched Protiviti Digital as a new service line focusing on digital marketing strategies.

2. Company Culture and Values

Vision

💡
To be an organization where everyone thrives.

Mission

💡
Strengthen diversity, nurture a culture of equity, inclusion, and belonging, and expand our impact

The organization is committed to enhancing the attraction, retention, development, and leadership pathways of a diverse workforce. Additionally, it strives to be an employer of choice, fostering an increasingly diversified and dedicated workforce that reflects the clients and communities in which it operates and resides.

Goals

💡
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

1. Strengthening Diversity

  • Increase avenues to recruit diverse talent.
  • Create and broaden existing programs and practices to enhance retention and advancement.
  • Define and track diversity metrics.

2. Nurturing a Culture of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

  • Instill equity in people systems, practices, and processes.
  • Enhance DEI support structures to fully engage employees.
  • Provide continuous exceptional learning experiences.
  • Drive increased leader support and accountability.

3. Expanding Impact

  • Expand diverse partnerships.
  • Develop greater client engagement with DEI initiatives.
  • Contribute to community organizations through volunteerism and scholarships.
  • Advance supplier inclusion.
  • Benchmark efforts through external recognitions and pledges.

Core Values of Protiviti

Source: Protiviti
  1. Integrity: Integrity involves committing to do the right thing in all situations, encompassing relationships with clients and colleagues, ethical stewardship of the company, and contributions to communities.
  2. Inclusion: Inclusion is about creating an equitable work environment where everyone can thrive. Success is achieved through teamwork, diversity, and mutual respect.
  3. Innovation: Innovation entails valuing and delivering new ideas and approaches. The organization employs a highly collaborative method and utilizes the latest tools and techniques to provide innovative solutions to clients.
  4. Commitment to Success: The organization empowers its people to drive success for clients and colleagues while improving communities. Individual and team successes are celebrated as everyone works together to deliver excellence and positively impact the world.

3. Comprehensive Product and Service Offerings

Protiviti offers a diverse range of solutions and services designed to help organizations navigate complex business challenges. Below is an overview of their key solutions and the industries they serve.

Key Solutions

  1. Artificial Intelligence: Development and implementation of AI strategies to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
  2. Cloud: Cloud strategy, migration, and management services to optimize cloud utilization.
  3. Customer Experience: Enhancing customer interactions through tailored strategies and digital transformation.
  4. Cybersecurity: Comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to protect organizations from threats and ensure data integrity.
  5. Data and Analytics: Advanced analytics services to leverage data for informed decision-making.
  6. Data Privacy: Strategies to ensure compliance with data protection regulations and enhance data governance.
  7. Digital Transformation: Guidance on adopting digital technologies to improve business processes and customer engagement.
  8. Employee Experience: Initiatives aimed at improving employee satisfaction and engagement within organizations.
  9. Finance Transformation: Services to modernize financial processes and systems for greater efficiency.
  10. Internal Audit: Internal audit services to assess risk management and compliance frameworks.
  11. Managed Solutions: Outsourced solutions for various business functions, including IT management.
  12. Operations: Process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
  13. Quantum Computing: Consulting on the implications and applications of quantum computing in business.
  14. Regulatory Compliance: Support in adhering to industry regulations and standards.
  15. Risk Management: Comprehensive risk assessment and management services to mitigate potential threats.
  16. Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance: Assistance in meeting SOX compliance requirements for financial reporting.
  17. Sustainability: Strategies for integrating sustainable practices into business operations.
  18. Technology: Technology consulting services to optimize IT infrastructure and strategy.
  19. Transaction Services: Support for mergers, acquisitions, and other transaction-related activities.

Industries Served by Protiviti

  1. Asset & Wealth Management
  2. Banking & Capital Markets
  3. Consumer Goods
  4. Construction & Infrastructure
  5. Education
  6. Government
  7. Healthcare
  8. Hospitality, Leisure & Travel
  9. Insurance
  10. Manufacturing Distribution
  11. Mortgage & Consumer Lending
  12. Non-Profit
  13. Oil, Gas & Resources
  14. Payments
  15. Pharma & Life Sciences
  16. Power, Utilities & Renewables
  17. Private Equity
  18. Retail
  19. Technology, Media & Telecommunications
  20. Transportation & Logistics

Protiviti's comprehensive suite of solutions enables them to address the unique needs of clients across various sectors, helping them adapt to changing market dynamics while enhancing their operational effectiveness and strategic initiatives.

4. Competitors of Protiviti

Protiviti faces competition from several prominent consulting firms. Here are the top five competitors:

1. Accenture

  • Overview: Accenture is a global professional services company that specializes in IT services and consulting. It is a Fortune Global 500 company.
  • Services: Strategy and consulting, interactive, technology, operations, industry X. Serves clients in various industries including communications, media, technology, financial services, health, public service, consumer products, and resources.
  • Market Position: Accenture has the highest market share in managed security services in 2023 and is the fastest growing among the top 3 security services providers based on revenue. It is consistently ranked among the top consulting firms globally, with $64.1B in revenue in 2024 and over 700,000 employees worldwide.

2. Deloitte

  • Overview: One of the "Big Four" accounting firms, Deloitte offers a wide range of professional services.
  • Services: Audit, tax, consulting, enterprise risk, financial advisory across industries.
  • Market Position: Deloitte is the largest professional services network with $59.3B in revenue in 2023 and 415,000+ employees globally, making it a formidable competitor to Accenture.

3. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC)

  • Overview: PwC is another member of the "Big Four" accounting firms. It provides professional services in assurance, advisory, and tax.
  • Services: Assurance (audit), advisory, tax, and legal services across various industries.
  • Market Position: PwC reported $50.3B in gross revenues in 2023 and has a workforce of over 328,000 people, positioning it as a leading global professional services network.

4. Ernst & Young (EY)

  • Overview: EY is a "Big Four" professional services firm headquartered in London.
  • Services: Assurance (audit), tax, transaction advisory, consulting across multiple sectors.
  • Market Position: EY reported revenues of $45.4B in 2023, employing around 365,000 professionals worldwide, making it a major player in the consulting and professional services market.

5. KPMG

  • Overview: KPMG is the fourth largest professional services firm and one of the "Big Four" accounting organizations.
  • Services: Audit, tax, and advisory services. Key industry focuses include financial services, infrastructure, government, and healthcare.
  • Market Position: KPMG generated $35B in revenue in 2023 with over 236,000 employees globally. It is a significant competitor in the professional services landscape.

These "Big Four" firms - Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG - along with Accenture, dominate the professional services market with their global reach, diverse service offerings and strong brand recognition. However, Protiviti's specialized expertise, client-centric approach and consistent industry recognition allow it to maintain a competitive position in the consulting industry.

5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Protiviti's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focus on community support and educational outreach, particularly in India. Here are some key programs highlighted:

Key CSR Initiatives

  1. Partnership with The Akshaya Patra Foundation:
    Protiviti India Capability Center collaborates with this foundation to provide meals to students in government schools. This initiative aims to encourage school attendance by addressing hunger, which helps reduce the school dropout rate.
  2. Outreach Programs:
    A month-long donation drive was organized to collect clothes, toys, and stationery for approximately 200 underprivileged school children. On Children's Day, volunteers visited the school to distribute these donations and conducted sessions on general safety awareness, health, and hygiene.
  3. Art on the Wall:
    The CSR team engaged in creating wall art to enhance the aesthetics of their environment while showcasing the team's creativity.
  4. Support for The Neofusion Creative Foundation:
    Protiviti donated two-wheelers to underprivileged students associated with this foundation, facilitating easier transportation and saving time for their educational pursuits.
  5. iTouchALife Initiative:
    Launched on India’s 75th Independence Day, this initiative encourages employees to assist those in need by providing simple essentials like food and water, reinforcing the belief that small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.

These initiatives reflect Protiviti's commitment to making a positive impact in the communities they operate within, emphasizing education, health, and overall well-being.

6. Career at Protiviti

For Students and Graduates

  1. Application Process: Candidates should apply through Protiviti's careers page, submitting tailored resumes and cover letters that highlight relevant skills and experiences.
  2. Interview Stages: The recruitment process typically includes an initial screening interview, followed by assessments to evaluate problem-solving abilities, and a final interview with multiple interviewers.
  3. Preparation: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their academic background, relevant experiences, and how they align with Protiviti's values and culture.
  4. Focus on Soft Skills: Protiviti values interpersonal skills, teamwork, and adaptability, so candidates should demonstrate these qualities during the interview process.

For Experienced Hires

  1. Diverse Opportunities: Experienced candidates can explore various roles across different service lines, such as technology consulting, risk management, and internal audit.
  2. Emphasis on Expertise: Candidates should highlight their industry-specific knowledge and past experiences that align with Protiviti’s service offerings.
  3. Cultural Fit: Understanding Protiviti's culture of collaboration, innovation, and integrity is crucial for experienced hires to demonstrate alignment with the firm's values.
  4. Continuous Learning: Protiviti encourages ongoing professional development, so candidates should express a commitment to learning and growth within their roles.

7. Conclusion

Protiviti has established itself as a leading global consulting firm over its 20-year journey, marked by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. With a robust focus on addressing emerging risks and leveraging advanced technologies, Protiviti is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape. The firm's dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, alongside its strategic initiatives in digital transformation and sustainability, underscores its vision for the future. As Protiviti continues to evolve, it remains committed to delivering exceptional value to clients while shaping the future of work through innovative solutions and thought leadership.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Protiviti Candidates:

  1. Diverse Opportunities: Protiviti values diverse backgrounds and experiences. Highlight your unique skills and contributions.
  2. Collaborative Culture: Expect a supportive environment that values teamwork; demonstrate your ability to work well with others.
  3. Structured Interview Process: Be prepared for multiple interview stages, including behavioral questions and case studies that assess problem-solving skills.
  4. Core Values Alignment: Understand and align with Protiviti’s core values—Integrity, Inclusion, Innovation, and Commitment to Success.
  5. Career Development: Protiviti offers strong career development programs; express your eagerness for continuous learning.

By focusing on these aspects, aspiring candidates can enhance their chances of successfully joining Protiviti and thriving within its dynamic work environment.