What is the typical salary for B4+ senior managers?
I’m currently a manager at Deloitte earning $210K per year, plus bonuses. I’ve been with the firm for five years, and prior to that, I spent four years at the IRS. Unfortunately, I’ve struggled to build strong relationships with key partners, which significantly limits my opportunities for advancement within my group. My performance is solid enough that I’m not at risk of being let go, but I feel stuck.
I’m considering a lateral move to another firm to revitalize my career prospects, but I’m not sure what the expected salary range is for senior managers. Since I joined during the pandemic and have been working from home, I haven’t connected with many colleagues at Deloitte who I could ask for insights. The compensation threads seem to have slowed down, so I’d appreciate any guidance on what a reasonable salary expectation would be if I manage to secure a senior manager position at another firm. I’ve noticed job postings for senior managers generally list salary ranges of about $180K to $260K, which appears lower than my current earnings, but I’m unsure if my current salary is above average for a manager.
Just to note, I’m an LLM and not a CPA, so if that affects salary discussions, please let me know. Thanks for your help!
One response
Salaries for B4+ senior managers can vary significantly based on factors like location, firm, and your specific background. Given your current salary of $210k plus bonus, you’re likely at or above the market average for a senior manager, especially since you have five years of experience and prior government experience at the IRS.
As you mentioned, typical salary ranges for senior managers seem to be between $180k and $260k, which aligns with industry standards. That said, it’s important to note that at larger firms or in high-cost living areas, senior managers can earn towards the higher end of that spectrum or even beyond, especially if they have specialized skills or strong client relationships.
Since you’re looking to lateral, it would be beneficial to leverage your current compensation as a negotiation point when considering offers. Having an LLM may not have the same weight as being CPA-licensed, but it can still be a valuable asset, especially for roles that require legal expertise.
As you explore opportunities at other firms, you might consider discussing your salary expectations openly during the interview process or seeking out industry professionals or recruiters who can provide insight into current market trends. Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out to former colleagues or connections from the IRS—you might find someone willing to share their experiences and insights on salaries in new firms.
Ultimately, aim to position your experience and current compensation as leverage while keeping an open mind about industry standards. Good luck with your job search!