Almost never is McKinsey hired by a middle manager; c-suite or Mr CEO is usually the client.
Everybody hates consultants, and it's not hard to point out errors, or money wasted on them.
Buy...I've yet to meet anyone who worked there, or at BCG, Bain, Booz etc, who didn't land in a good place when they left consulting.
Tough hours, but it pays great, gives you inside knowledge of various industries as you move thru different assignments, contact with sr managers at a young age, and usually a chance to jump in at a high level in industry when you leave.
They are going thru a rough patch right now, more to do with companies battening the hatches for coming recession, than from media issues. When the business cycle turns again they will be back to usual.