Getting pushed into the director path, should I be looking elsewhere?

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I can empathize with you as I’m in a similar situation, but perhaps more tenuous as I’m leading the charge on building new capabilities that should redefine what the org does and how it operates. I’ve made the decision that I'm leaving if my preferred next step doesn't materialize. In ~8 months I'll know whether or not I'll be here long term 😀

Firms have been increasingly pushing people to non-partner paths. I'm sure this is good for managing the pension liability, but I can't see the draw of being at a Big4 long term without becoming a partner. So if you want partner/your own franchise I would look elsewhere. I’ve had friends in similar situations and most ended up leaving.

All of this rambling is to say that I feel your frustration, and that if you aren’t getting what you want out of the org leaving isn’t a bad option.

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What do you mean? You don’t want to be a director?

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@OP. Provide more context on D’s org. Director is a natural step in the progression whether you want to become a partner or a managing director

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Define pushed. Also are you sure you are ready for partner?

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You all make it sound like being a Director is a failure... which is why people leave.

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@Deloitte2 I wouldn't be thrilled to be here long term at Director (or MD). At that point I'd rather start my own business or freelance and have greater autonomy with equity and/or a feeling of ownership. At a tech company I would be picking up sizeable equity compensation each year.

There isn't a compensation mechanism in consulting prior to partner that provides a feeling of ownership and it is weirdly important to me.

Lack of equity feels like failure to me 🤷‍♂️

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If ur passionate about selling while delivering and long term client relationships then no. P versus MD is ultimately about what you love to do and less about the title

Self-assess first. Then have a conversation to understand why they view you as a director. Then do a gap assessment.

Not everyone can be a partner. ED is a great path as well. I wouldn’t negate it until you go through above.

Completely agree with the above, if you can’t make partner then have a true assessment if this is the right industry for you. Had friends leave to tech companies and they have been extremely happy, especially those that left in the last 2-3 years and received solid stock packages.

Director is a failure unless you joined as an experienced hire in your 50’s.

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