Bain aims to be ready when corporate titans need a little direction. One of the world's leading management consulting firms, Bain & Company offers a wide array of services aimed at increasing efficiency and streamlining business processes. The firm also consults on strategic business issues, such as potential mergers and acquisitions and private equity investments; services include due-diligence preparation. In addition, Bain consultants address topics such as information technology, marketing, and performance improvement. With more than 3,500 consultants, the firm operates from more than 35 offices in about two dozen countries. It was founded in 1973 by Boston Consulting Group alumnus Bill Bain.