User experience (UX) is an inextricable part of today's digital world. Whether it's a mobile app, e-commerce website, or a digital ad campaign, the success of any digital operation hinges on the quality of the user experience it delivers. This is where a UX Consultant comes into play. Essentially, a UX Consultant's role is to study, evaluate, and improve the operations and effects of digital systems on their end-users. Nonetheless, the process of hiring the right consultant can present a significant intellectual puzzle.

First and foremost, one must understand that the UX landscape is complex and multifaceted. It is essential to comprehend not only the design and technology aspects, but also the psychological and sociological principles at play. A comprehensive understanding of these principles allows a UX consultant to create digital experiences that are engaging, intuitive, and aligned with a user's needs and expectations.

Given the complexity of the field, it is crucial to look for a UX consultant with a multi-disciplinary background. A consultant who has a degree in Human-Computer Interaction, for instance, will have a good grasp of the technical, cognitive, and design aspects of UX. Additionally, experience in fields such as psychology, sociology, or marketing can be advantageous as these disciplines provide valuable insights into human behavior, a crucial factor in UX design.

The ubiquity of digital systems means that a UX consultant’s role can extend over a plethora of industries and sectors. A consultant with experience in your specific industry can be beneficial since they will be familiar with the common UX challenges and solutions relevant to your field. The healthcare industry, for example, has specific requirements for data privacy and accessibility, which a UX consultant with pertinent experience will be well-equipped to handle.

While academic credentials and industry experience are vital, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. A UX consultant’s portfolio is a visual, tangible reflection of their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. When reviewing a portfolio, look for projects that are similar to yours. Analyze their approach, the challenges they encountered, and how they overcame them. This can provide you with valuable insights into a consultant’s practical abilities.

The velocity of technological advancement necessitates a continuous learning mindset for any UX consultant. Technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming the UX landscape, necessitating a consultant who is abreast of, and can leverage, these technologies. A consultant's ability to adapt is crucial, as it ensures they can effectively handle any future UX challenges your business might face.

The consultant’s cognitive empathy is another factor to consider. This refers to their ability to understand the mindset, emotions, and needs of the users. This skill, coupled with problem-solving abilities, allows them to design solutions that address user needs effectively. Additionally, a consultant’s communication skills are important, as they need to articulate their ideas and solutions to various stakeholders effectively.

In conclusion, hiring the right UX consultant is an intellectually involving process that requires a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of UX. The right consultant will have a multidisciplinary background, industry-specific experience, a strong portfolio, a continuous learning mindset, cognitive empathy, and excellent communication skills. They will be your ally in understanding your users, and designing digital interactions that delight them, thereby driving the success of your digital operations.