2nd year partner at a top 6 accounting firm. Have offer from big 4 for $200K more annually. Don’t really want to take it, but how can I not.? That’s approx a college education annually after tax. Should I try to negotiate or just take the money and jump ship. Feeling Seriously undervalued for what I’m bringing to the firm in terms of people building, sales, book of business. Hate to not be loyal, but $200K is $200K. Advice please

likesmarthelpful
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Partner comp increases a lot as a partner moves from being a new partner to a 5 year partner and later to a senior partner. The $200k increase doesn’t mean you have been undervalued. It’s like one of your seniors getting a manager offer. You would have gotten them there but someone else offered it to them early to take them to their firm. I would consider the team, support, and career path when making this decision and expect comp to even out. I think it is appropriate to ask for more comp at your current firm and reference colleagues at other firms. I would not share the offer. The fact that you got an offer with another firm will erode trust. However, the fact that you interviewed at all does speak volumes about how you feel about your current role and colleagues and you should consider that.

likehelpful

Don’t take it for the money but for the work you would be doing. Changing between firms is hard and if you don’t produce quickly you will be cut.

like

You’re a Partner at a Top 6 firm meaning you’re not in Big 4. And you have a Big 4 offer. Take the offer and the money. Unless it’s KPMG. KPMG is trying to pay their way through to continue to be relevant. Not a sustainable firm/ model in my opinion. Any of the other Big 3, no brainer. Take the offer. Good luck!

likesmartfunny

You are crazy-you like where you are and have built a great team…200k gets you 100k more in taxes and major lifestyle changes…cash will come where you are… talk with current firm and work it out…all those relationships mean something believe me! (Speak from experience)

likesmart

Go on take the money and run…

like

Keep in mind that there are often times hidden costs, like what you run through vs out of pocket and insurance coverage requirements. Also, you probably have a non-compete that you might need to negotiate out of. I know 200k is a lot, but my annual comp increases have been 200k+ a year. So unless you don’t like your firm, it might not make sense.

like

I’m at a top 15 firm and perform at a high level. I’m probably a little underpaid for the value I bring, but that is being stair stepped up. I would talk to your MP about your comp process and see what the projections look like. If your comp is low, then firm isn’t doing well, you aren’t doing well and/or you aren’t being paid for your value. Just need to be honest with yourself and see if that would change at Big 4. I’ve heard they are quicker to cut partners that aren’t performing than the rest and have higher goals.

likesmart

That is a lot of money for a place with a better brand. It’s a no brainer - take the job! Congrats

like

Thank you.

smartfunny

What are your reasons for saying you don’t really want to take it?

How about we address what CM is on your book and determine how much of that you’re clearing. Can’t spend revenue but you can spend margin. Assume your team won’t follow you to your new gig as your old firm will punish you and them for coming your way. They won’t care if you tell them no one is recruiting them away.

It depends on what firm you are going to. Also what is your comp now?

So you are at GT or BDO making (or will soon be making once comp adjustments are effective for partners) in the 325-350 range and were offered 525-550. The steps in the first 4-5 years are sizable. Expectations will be higher for sure.

Im not at GT or BDO. Over next 3 years my comp should increase by $150K per the newer partner ramp. However my numbers are in the top 25% of all partners and I don’t want to wait for $ just because I’m a “new partner”. I’m performing and have proven I can sell/build teams and can be paid $200K+ more if I jump tomorrow. Only thing holding me back is the amazing team I’ve built that probably follows me wherever I go. I’d love to give the firm a chance, but we are so far apart it’s almost insulting.

I think you should give credit to the firm that gave you this opportunity to hire, build a team, and build a practice. They took the risk, believed in you and supported you. In addition, your team took a chance in coming to work for you. I think all firms consider revenue growth and sales in their compensation model. If you are selling and growing a practice, your compensation will go up quickly at your current firm. It is fair to discuss with them where you want to be, why you think you deserve it, what you are doing to earn that comp, etc. It isn’t fair to turn your back on people that have supported you and given you opportunities without having this discussion.

like

There was a reason you interviewed right? Was it more money? If so you got it now so what’s the problem?

I interviewed to find my FMV and confirm what I’ve suspected. Now I’d love to stay if we can get close to FMV.

I love first world problems.

B4 can give you scale I wouldn’t think you’d achieve in Top 15. The $200k gap now could be $1m gap in 20 years? Is it a B4 with a DB pension? Take the B4. Retire early and get cushy board positions with B4 P on your resume.

Have you worked at a B4 before?

Do your clients and experience translate to what B4 expectations are in your practice area?

You like your life right now? (Real question)

What is your warning potential at current firm? (You prolly covered that one)

Are you cool looking for a new gig if this doesn’t work out or you don’t like it?

I’ve been doing comp with new partners for a while now… no one feels they’re getting what their worth early on. Myself included. And those ahead of you never feel like you appreciate the opportunity and platform they provided for you to earn on now. Funny how quickly you can end up on the other side when you appreciate your team and keep building/demonstrating value.

Seems like there’s a lot to consider over money. And I recognize a lot of people will still opt for the money now and be happy. Just saying there’s a lot to think about more than that.

Related Posts

Anyone able to refer for a good company as for internal audit or risk advisory? Looking for Richmond, VA area or fully remote. Target base is $125k and above. I have my CPA and 6-7 years of experience (1.5 at big 4, 3 in mgmt consulting, 1.5 corporate)

I’ve decided to make my career in the government side of consulting. Been doing it 10 years. Seems hard to find jobs where I manage people unless at a big 4. Anyone else find this true?

Do any JDs feel like they’re underpaid? If so, how do you justify staying in Big 4 instead of going to a law firm?

like

Any attorneys ready to leave big 4? When is the best time and what are our options? After 1, 2, or 3 years? Big law or other law firms?

like

Im joining one of the big 4 as a tech consultant (graduate) (UK) and wondering if there are any tips / ways to prepare before joining?

like

If you are working industry, 40 hours a week with a competitive pay and left B4 tax - can you share your new job title? Not sure what is out there that I could apply for.

The b4 life is not for me and is actually affecting my family (mom of 2 kiddos). I’m looking into something with true flexibility and less than 50 hours a week. Any advice?

like

How do you transition from big 4 consulting to big law? My clients are all funds, and I do international tax consulting. I have used my connections to refer me into probably 10 big law firms and it’s not working. One most recently came back and said they aren’t interested bc I have no law firm experience. How am I supposed to get it though? I can’t go to lower ranked firms bc my clients are all “big.” … any suggestions appreciated!

Hey Fishes!
What is sap scene in London and Manchester regions, will be moving there with my wife , is it going to easy finding a job in any of the big 4? Seven yoe.

like

Any former Big 4 auditors which switched to controlling/FP&A/internal audit care to share their experience on the new job? Is it more interesting?
You feel like you actually help the business?
and promotion is harder to get as many say?
Thanks!

like

What’s the best way to determine whether or not any of the Deal/FDD service lines are offered in specific big 4 office location? Trying to search in the Portland market if anyone has any insight.

like

Curious what the current Employee Referral Bonuses look like in B4 firms? As a smaller firm, our people are being inundated by recruiters, but also staff/seniors from B4 firms looking to poach, I assume because there is significant financial incentive. How good are the referral bonuses at your firm?

like

Getting a competing offer from another big 4 but I don't necessarily want to switch. I expect to get +20% from competing firm. What's normal to ask from my firm? They have agreed that I'm underpaid

like

looking for referral to b4 consulting firms. recently let go from deloitte as part of current headcount reductions. any assistance is appreciated. please DM me, thanks

How is the volume at RSM compared to the Big 4?

like

Has anyone on here worked in the government sector during their time in the big 4? What was the dress code? How were the hours and how was it in this sector?

like

What are some good target schools based on my stats?
GPA: 3.9 @ Midwest state school.
GMAT: 710
4 YOE Big 4 Accounting Advisory.
ECs: weak

like
likehelpful

Honestly working at Big 4 has made me feel worthless. Seems like nothing I do is good enough. I graduated with honors from a large competitive public university. I came in with a positive attitude,I am a very talkative person who had many leadership roles in college, I always stay organize, and I put in the time and continue to look for ways to improve. But constantly feeling like I’m not “type A” enough or that I need to communicate more and prove my worth. Is it like this at other jobs too? :/

likeuplifting

What’s the difference in MBB partner pay vs. B4?

like

Do we have pre sales / Sales and other Busimess Development functions (including Market Research, Market Development etc. ) in Big 4? How is the career path and growth trajectory like ?

like

More Posts

Anyone using Natural Wireless as their internet provider? Comments

like

Ladies I finally took the plunge with Botox and am so excited!! Been lurking on Botox threads here for a few months... thanks for all the inspiration 💁‍♀️

like

Cleared client round and got email confirmation from HCL PM on offer. HR discussion is about to start.
6.8 yrs experience in Automation Testing and currently in Test Lead position. Getting hired for Implementation Analyst/Manager considering my previous responsibilities held and aspirations. My current total CTC is 15.5. How much can I expect? Also do HCL provide joining bonus?

Anyone have intel on what it’s like to work at Lowenstein Sandler (NYC or elsewhere)?

like

I don’t hate the side show award. But did we really need an award show to validate our side hustles? Idk feels a little iffy - also what if I’m terrible at baking and bake the ugliest ever cakes but that’s my side hustle that helps keep my sanity. Will the CDs judging this award show recognize my shitty cakes?

likesmartfunny

Hey guys,

is it safe to move to healthcare organization which is established in India only 2 years ago, but in US it was established around 160+ years ago, keeping in mind on recession and job security?

Please help me on this!!!


Fractal Infosys Tata Consultancy IBM Wipro Nagarro

like

I need help. I'm an Asian male. Currently working on an engagement where the manager (also Asian) is dumping all their work on to me and not doing anything. We had a status call to discuss work (cont)

like

Wipro folks i missed to ask 2 lakhs JB when i asked recruiter to match IBM JB, he must have already initiated the revised offer process last thursday, if i talk now about JB , would that be fine ? I believe JB is never mentined in salary break up, its mentioned seperatly and process in wipro is always getting LOi first followed by offer letter, although this is would be 2nd offer letter from wipro

like

Are there any working moms who's hubbies are in the military and are deployed often? How do you handle the kids? How does it affect your career and the marriage?

like

PDubbers: Who's at the all-hands RN?

like

Was on adderall throughout college, but didn’t like how my body responded to it. After joining the workforce full-time, I think I need to start medication again. Any softer meds that work for you?

like
likehelpful
like

I constantly feel guilty for logging off early even on one day a week - well not early but I worked from 8:30am-6:30pm and feel like I’m the only one not online currently. I also obsessively keep checking teams on my phone to see who else at my level is working longer hours. I know this doesn’t sound normal so please help with any suggestions!!!

like

Can someone explain how the stimulus bill affects the 2020 for individuals?

likehelpful

Should an employment lawyer consider getting a PHR/SPHR certificate? Is it worthwhile?
A lot of in house opportunities seem to be looking for them

like

Are we our own worst critics? Despite getting glowing reviews from above, I can’t help but feel like I don’t do enough or quick enough or efficiently enough. This causes anxiety and stress for me.

like

EY fish, I have been working with a recruiter (in GPS) that has been extremely helpful throughout the entire process. What's the best way to let his management know that he's awesome?

Additional Posts in Partners in Accounting

Have you noticed inflation and the general chaos we're moving through affecting your business and firm? Just asking for different perspectives here, not a political discussion.

like

Anyone transition from a technical tax guru to a rainmaker, later in their career?

like

Any firms that use CCH make sure your invoices are being checked carefully. We just reviewed ours and were over-billed the last 2 years. We were supposed to have discounts and the math wasn’t even correct across for the amount times the discount to the amount billed. The worst part is our rep then gave a bullshit story of how the list price was incorrect on the invoice but the amount billed was correct.

like

I started a firm with three other colleagues about a year and a half ago. We all came from the same bigger firm and now obviously we are considered a very small. We want to make our first hire and hire someone for around $100,000 as a manager to manage around $200,000 of work. They came back at $120,000. After taxes and benefits that’s $150k to manage and prepare $200k of work. Anyone own a smaller firm who can share opinion? How much work should one manage for that kind of salary?

like

I work a midsize regional firm and, no surprise, we are hemorrhaging staff. And it’s the good ones leaving. Some for family offices and industry positions, which I can understand. But others for smaller accounting firms as staff and seniors which just seems like a career killer to me. I’m convinced we need to do retention bonuses, raises, and recruit new talent by paying above market. Of course I’m a younger partner and don’t have the pull to actually make this happen. Thoughts?

like

Vaccine mandates over finally. Except for the unconstitutional hypocritical NYC mandate.

likesmart

Where are all the accounting professionals going? Competitive pay and benefits aren’t enticing enough. People want work/life balance but how can firms provide that when the workforce supply is so low yet demand is at an all-time high. If technology is the answer are there firms that are successfully implementing solutions?

Any large firms include directors and non-equity principles in the pension plan?

like

Work in tax, moved to a new state a number of years ago and didn't transfer my CPA license. Got a partner offer from a top six firm in my new state. Can I become a partner before I transfer my license to my new state?

likesmart

How does leaving a cpa firm partnership work? I have no next role set up but feel like it might be best to give notice and start the process now. Thanks for any advice.

like

What's your best advice for someone who wants to make Partner and is early in their career?

likehelpful

What are the partner buy in at the B4?

like