[Ramo843]

Hi friends,

Just wanted to get some opinions on going from an industry position to public accounting (Big 4, maybe?). Usually it’s the other way around, so I feel like I’ve missed out on some experiences.

For context, graduated college 5 years ago and have worked for the same publicly-traded company ever since. Almost went straight from college to a national firm, but had an offer given, then rescinded during the market crash. (Kind of scrambled for a job after that)

Just passed my CPA exams, and now I actually have time to think about making career moves.

What are all your thoughts on the necessity of working in public accounting and its impact on future job prospects? If necessary, is Big 4 the best way to go?

Advice, opinions, testimonials…. all appreciated.

Thanks!

FAR - 81 (12/6/2013 - 1st)
BEC - 82 (2/27/2014 - 1st)
AUD - 96 (5/29/2014 - 1st)
REG - 83 (8/29/2014 - 1st)

[ScarletKnightCPA]

I'm interested in hearing about this, was actually just thinking about posting myself. I am in very much same situation graduated 5 years ago, in industry and would like to get into big 4.

Far: 76 (Wiley Test Bank)
Aud: 77 (Wiley Test Bank)
Reg: 61, 76 (Wiley book, Wiley Test Bank)
Bec: 86 (Wiley Test Bank)

MBA in progress

[OnMyWay732]

The reason most companies love those coming from public accounting is because that's where you see everything, more or less. You deal with financials a lot, disclosures, and you typically know all the new requirements that are constantly being rolled out. They also know you can handle stress, multi-tasking, and working with a variety of people. It is definitely a huge plus.

That being said – is Big 4 necessary? Personally, I don't think so. What having Big 4 on your resume is that you more likely handled things by the books rather than trying to be more efficient, which would have come to the same conclusion but a lot of companies like seeing standards followed. It also shows that you dealt with the worst of the worst. I mean seriously. Is there anything worse than public accounting busy season?

Definitely consider it. It will help your future….

GOOOOO RUTGERSSSS

AUD - July 2014 - 76
REG - August 2014 - 82
FAR - November 2014 - 78
BEC - January 2015 - 81

DONE!!!!

Used Becker online. Who needs a text when you can burn your eyes out staring at the screen for months on end?

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you're hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!"

[ScarletKnightCPA]

Wooo Rutgers lol

Far: 76 (Wiley Test Bank)
Aud: 77 (Wiley Test Bank)
Reg: 61, 76 (Wiley book, Wiley Test Bank)
Bec: 86 (Wiley Test Bank)

MBA in progress

[rzrbkfaith]

I went from industry to public and I will say that I honestly believe that it will make you a better auditor or whatever it is you choose to do because you will have a better understanding of what goes on in a company (practical knowledge). So many accountants in public are exposed to lots of things, but they never get the full understanding of the “behind the scenes” in a company. I also believe it helps you to relate better to clients as well, because you have been in their shoes. Good luck in whatever you choose to do!

AUD - 99
BEC - 97
REG - 91
FAR - 1/8/16

[IndExpPubN00b]

I was in the same position earlier this year and I did make the move. I didn't make the move to Big 4, but I did move to the largest firm in the area outside of the Big 4. I live in a large city. Before making the move I discussed it with the audit manager on our job from E&Y. He didn't think I'd have much of a shot getting in with the Big 4, because I didn't have my CPA yet and was already on the backend of my 20's so I moved to a large local firm.

My pay moved laterally and I negotiated a double of my vacation time, but my title took a step down. I was the assistant controller at a medium sized company before moving and because I didn't have my CPA I could only be brought in as a staff II due to company policy.

AUD - Passed 08/31
BEC - Testing 10/06
FAR - Testing 11/24
REG - Testing 01/12

[IndExpPubN00b]

@rzrbkfaith:

I completely agree.

AUD - Passed 08/31
BEC - Testing 10/06
FAR - Testing 11/24
REG - Testing 01/12

[fuzyfro89]

Technical skills, maybe (not).

Soft skills… fa sho!

Being in public is about the hardest thing you can do. Clients generally don't want you there, and don't enjoy getting the “service”. You're not consulting for them, it's a required process that is difficult, tedious, and tiring. Managing relationships when you're trying to play between friend/auditor is a hard relationship, and will help thicken your skin.

With that said, it likely won't be pleasant, easy, or fun, but it served my career well as a starting point and foundation.

[Kay]

go Rutgers!

Currently:
CPA - Class of 2013
ALMI (Associate, Life Management Institute)
CISA - Passed in 2011, Certified in 2014

In Progress:
ASA (Associate of Society of Actuaries) - EXAM P (O), EXAM FM (O), EXAM MFE (X), EXAM MLC (X), EXAM C (X)

[Anonymous]

I did the same thing. I had 5 years of industry experience, had my CPA and went to work for a local tax/audit firm. I made a little more when I went there and have gotten good raises since being there. I have enjoyed my experience there but when I work with corporate clients, especially start ups that are growing like crazy I always find myself wanting to be on the other end, so I am looking to go back to corporate accounting as an accounting manager/assistant controller. I am glad I made the move though. I think it has taken my career to the next level and I have had a lot of experience working with CFOs, controllers and VPs that I think will help my transition back into corporate accounting. Do you want to stay in public accounting once you transition?

[Author]

Replies