Presentation of the AlixPartners firm

Introduction

AlixPartners is a globally recognized consulting firm for its expertise in corporate restructuring, crisis management, and operational transformation . Founded in 1981 by Jay Alix, it specializes in supporting companies facing complex challenges, whether financial, organizational, or strategic. Unlike traditional consulting firms, AlixPartners stands out for its hands-on approach , implementing concrete and rapid solutions.

With a strong presence in the United States, Europe and Asia, AlixPartners is today a major player in the management of critical situations , working alongside managers, shareholders and investors to restore the performance and profitability of companies.

Key Figures

• Date of foundation : 1981

• Founder : Jay Alix

• Headquarters : New York, United States

• Global Presence : More than 25 offices worldwide

• Workforce : Approximately 2,500 employees

• Paris office : Opened in 2006, a key player in restructuring in France

• Main competitors : McKinsey, BCG, Bain (for strategy), Alvarez & Marsal (for restructuring)

  
  

History and Development of the Firm

Founded in 1981 in New York City, AlixPartners was a pioneer in turnaround consulting for distressed businesses . Its founder, Jay Alix, is credited with introducing innovative turnaround management methods, which quickly helped the firm make a name for itself in the industry.

In the 1990s-2000s , the firm expanded its services beyond restructuring to include performance improvement, operational transformation and litigation management.

AlixPartners has experienced rapid international expansion :

• Opening of the Paris office in 2006 , strengthening its presence in Europe.

• Established presence in Asia (Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong) and the Middle East (Dubai, Riyadh).

• Strong growth in the industrial, financial and technology sectors .

Today, the firm is considered a world leader in supporting companies in transformation , maintaining its DNA focused on rapid action and crisis resolution .

Expertise and Areas of Intervention

AlixPartners offers a wide range of services, with a unique positioning around restructuring and performance improvement .

Main sectors covered:

• Automotive & Industry : Optimization of supply chains, recovery plans for manufacturers and equipment suppliers.

• Financial Services & Banking : Reorganization of financial institutions, risk reduction and regulatory compliance.

• Technology & Telecom : Supporting large tech companies in their digital transformation and optimization strategies.

• Retail & Consumer Goods : Managing commercial crises and improving margins.

• Litigation & Contentious Matters : Financial investigations, forensic accounting and support during complex disputes.

• Energy : Ecological transition and cost reduction strategies.

  
  

Areas of expertise:

• Restructuring & Turnaround : Debt reduction, refinancing plans, liquidity crisis management.

• Operational transformation : Cost optimization, reorganization of industrial processes.

• Dispute management & investigations : Fraud analysis, compliance audits, financial arbitrations.

• Strategy & Performance : Improving profitability, strategic repositioning.

  
  

A Culture of Impact and Excellence

AlixPartners stands out for its culture that is both demanding and focused on concrete results .

1. A demanding and dynamic environment

• Work in small, ultra-autonomous teams .

• Quick assumption of responsibility, even at a junior level.

• Missions under pressure, often in critical situations.

2. A unique “hands-on” approach

• Not just theoretical advice: consultants are directly involved in the execution of action plans .

• Close relationship with clients, particularly managers and investment funds.

3. A reputation for discretion and efficiency

• Unlike McKinsey or BCG, AlixPartners communicates very little about its missions.

• Prefers measurable performance to media notoriety .

  
  

Recruitment and Career Prospects

The recruitment process is selective and includes several stages :

• CV screening and pre-interview with a focus on analytical skills.

• Advanced practical cases (financial analysis, recovery of a company in crisis).

• Interview with a Managing Director for final validation.

Positions and development:

1. Consultant (young graduate)

2. Vice President (5-7 years of experience)

3. Director / Senior VP

4. Managing Director (partner)

Consultants quickly gain skills, with exposure to C-levels and investors .

Recent news:

Possibility of sale of the office by its owners

On January 17, 2025, reports emerged that AlixPartners' current owners were considering a sale of the consulting firm, with a potential valuation estimated at between $5 billion and $8 billion.

Financial restructuring of GiFi

In November 2024, the low-cost retailer GiFi was put up for sale by its founder, Philippe Ginestet , due to ongoing financial difficulties. On January 17, 2025, an agreement was reached with the creditor banks, providing for the cancellation of more than €300 million of the total €470 million in debt. In return, the banks acquired 40% of the company's capital, and a recapitalization plan of €150 to €200 million was put in place to revive the business. This agreement also led to the sidelining of the Ginestet family from the company's management.

Conclusion

AlixPartners stands out as an atypical consulting firm , focused on action and rapid problem solving. Its pragmatic approach and expertise in crisis management and restructuring make it a unique player in the world of consulting. For professionals seeking a dynamic, intense and empowering environment , AlixPartners is an undeniable reference.