Life after the Big 4: should I stay or should I go

After working for a Big 4 company for a few years, you’ve perhaps arrived at a crossroad which many before you have also come to: should you stick it out until that big promotion or should you find yourself an internal finance role within an organization?

If you’ve been keen on branching out of audit but are intimidated to take the plunge, here are three reasons why an industry role might better suit your professional goals:

Bigger impact on the business

Are you looking to have a greater impact on the business? Do you want to not only advise businesses but also implement your ideas and see them flourish? Although audit is very client-facing, you’re adding a limited value to clients’ businesses and the work is very process driven.

Natural moves from audit to industry in roles such as financial control or financial analysis will allow you to add a real value to an organization by becoming the financial “go to” person, participating in analyzing and resolving strategic issues and driving improvements. As a true business partner, you will apply strategic, forward-thinking skills and provide more strategic analyses which will contribute to the company’s success.

Broader and more stimulating job content

Have you been craving for less repetitive work? Are you looking to dive deeper into technical issues and drive process effectiveness? A career in audit is a great way to learn the basics of a company’s financial performance, but an internal finance function will allow you to develop a broader business understanding and immerse yourself not only in the financials but also within the organization itself.

You will get to know the ins and outs of your business, the products, the customers, and the way everything comes together. If you’re looking to join a more stimulating or fast-growing environment to compliment your career ambitions, a wide range of industries such as cutting-edge pharmaceutical companies, technology companies, global manufacturers, and top retailers highly value Big 4 backgrounds.

Better work/life balance

Are you growing tired of the late nights, the busy seasons and constantly moving from client to client? Working in such a fast-paced, constantly changing environment can be stressful and take a toll on your life outside the office. Transferring out of Big 4 firms does not mean you will never again have busy periods where overtime is needed, but you will overall have more time for hobbies, family and yourself.

For more insights on why it may be the right time for you to move on from your Big 4 career, download our guide, Life After The Big 4.

Making a move starts with knowing your market value — explore our 2025 Salary Survey.