Can we start a thread of people starting in big four right out of college and what kind of exit opportunities and pay bump they got just for having big four on the résumé while exiting?

likesmartfunny
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Here's my progression timeline:

2019 - Graduated with BA in Accounting and Information Systems, started at KPMG as an Advisory Associate (Internal Audit) at $65k

2020 - Still at KPMG, raise to $69k

2021 - Promo to Hybrid (BP / IT IA) Senior, raise to $85k + 1.5% bonus (not kidding)

2022 - Left B4, went to boutique public accounting / consulting firm, hired as a Hybrid (BP / IT IA) Senior at $120k base + >20% annual bonus

2023 - Still at boutique firm, now a Hybrid (BP / IT IA) Manager at $142k base + >20% annual bonus

2024 - Still at boutique firm as an IT IA Manager at $148k base + >20% annual bonus

2025 - Jumped to industry client, now a Senior IT Compliance Manager at $180k base + $10k annual bonus

All in all, I'd recommend jumping to industry at the Senior or Manager level - when I announced my departure, all my SMs and Directors told me that I was making the right move at the right time. They were all feeling pigeon-holed into Public Accounting, and that candidates with both public and industry experience were beating them out for jobs. Best of luck!

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This worked before - doesn't work anymore. Recession is resulting in less and less people leaving with pay bumps.

I think the shift would be more towards leaving for more work life balance - not increase in salary.

But to answer your question, it used to be 15-20% increase

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Following because I’m interested too. Been stuck at senior associate level and they’re making me sell my kidney to get promoted

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Hello D1. I’m an S5….. I feel your pain.

My reviews are always very high and I’m comfortable taking the lead on things but they keep shifting the goalposts.

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How would you know how much of a bump they got for just having B4 on their resume?

likesmart

Been with the firm 10 years, director Tax LOS in MCOL - started at $52k and now in low 200s.

Is the Big 4 payoff partner? Yes. Are some of my peers making more currently? Yes. Will I make partner? TBD.

Regardless of if that happens, I am happy with the career decisions I've made. Maternity leave and parental flexibility has been incredible. I personally don't see many director / VP of Tax industry peers working less hours. Also, my job satisfaction, experiences and knowledge skyrocketed AFTER manager. I have a much better view of how global businesses operate and where tax can drive value. Regardless of making partner, I feel very confident in my career trajectory based on the experiences I've gained here, which I would not have gotten if I left at manager.

That is not to say everyone should stay in B4 or have a goal to make partner. If accounting is not for you, figure that out early and move on. But know that there is value in staying past manager even if you don't become a partner.

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So you’re starting a new job and already focusing on exiting? Hmmmm

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Curious about exit opportunities

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