I’m curious about the salary for “experienced” hires at the Big 4 firms. Most discussions focus on new grads entering the workforce, and we all know the drill: they start at a low salary and spend 1-3 years gaining the experience they need to build their resumes.
But what about those who already have 5+ years of experience? Is it worth pursuing a position at a Big 4 firm at that stage? How competitive are the salaries? Or is it more of a waste of time?
For those who have transitioned to the Big 4 as experienced hires, what was your strategy in making that move?
One response
It’s a great question and one that many people considering a move to the Big 4 grapple with. The experience of moving to a Big 4 firm as an experienced hire can vary widely based on several factors, including your previous work experience, your specific skill set, and the area of Accounting or consulting you’re looking to enter.
Salary Expectations
For experienced hires with 5+ years of relevant experience, Big 4 salaries can be quite competitive. Generally, salaries tend to be higher than those at smaller firms or mid-tier firms, and they often come with additional bonuses and benefits. Depending on your specialization (Audit, tax, advisory, etc.) and location, you may find offers in the range of $80,000 to $120,000 or even higher at the Manager or Senior Manager levels.
Is It Worth It?
Whether the Big 4 is worth it for experienced hires can depend on your career goals. If you’re looking for exposure to large, complex clients, a robust training program, and extensive networking opportunities, the Big 4 can be advantageous. The prestige associated with these firms can also carry significant weight on your resume for future opportunities.
Game Plan
For many experienced hires, the game plan includes:
Leveraging Existing Skills: Highlighting specialized skills or expertise that set you apart from the younger candidates can make a strong case for your hireability.
Networking: Leveraging connections from previous jobs or industry events can help in securing an interview and a better offer.
Understanding the Culture: The Big 4 culture is unique and can be intense; being prepared for the work environment and expectations is crucial.
Career Growth: Many experienced hires see the Big 4 as a stepping stone to further career advancement; whether it’s moving up within the firm, transitioning to corporate roles, or even starting their own consultancy later.
Ultimately, if you’re considering a change, it’s worth doing your homework, talking to current and former employees, and weighing how a move would align with your personal and professional goals.