Okay, let’s tackle this. So Duncan has a strong skill set in Mergers And Acquisitions, International M&A, M&A Strategy, and more. He’s a consultant, which typically commands a premium. Location is Chicago, IL, which is a major hub for consulting firms. Industry demand for M&A and HR expertise is moderate to high. Considering his skills and location, I'd estimate his hourly rate to be around $125. This is slightly below the national average for a management consultant in the US, but taking into account his limited experience (not explicitly stated), I've rounded down. Some entry-level consultants in the US might start at $100-$150 per hour, while senior consultants can earn upwards of $250 per hour. Duncan's rate seems reasonable for his level of experience and skill set.