I have two CPA exams that I still need to pass and about to be promoted to audit senior at my big 4 firm. I really dislike the work at this point (not sure if it will get better after this year) and I hate being at work. Previously, I had a job I really enjoyed but it's not as flexible as far as living in a smaller town one day. I have a lot of corporate finance, writing, research etc. experience. At this point, I just want to retire right now because I hate it so much but I have liked jobs in the past and know that it's probably just where I am right now that is the problem. Any former big 4 people have some advice? I really want to leave like now but it will be a few months till I'm promoted and can research and apply for a new job.
Yes, former Big 4 audit, left in 2013 for Fortune 10 position in Treasury after 2nd yr (but before Aug/Sep when I would have been promoted to Senior).
My transition was not typical (my pay jump was significant compared to others I know).
It really depends on what you want. I felt I knew my path in Big 4, and accounting for that matter, which would have been slow, steady, and too boring for me. Again, not a comment for anyone else, but it just wasn't meeting my expectations/goals any more and staying for another 1, 2, 3+ years wouldn't have changed that.
The documentation requirements are just a
nightmare. Trust me, I hear people from the Controller's group who work on SOX also complain about the ridiculous requirements nowadays. It may get better, but I wouldn't wait around for that possibility.
Find out what you would like to get into, and go for it. You are very marketable as a experience associate and Senior associate. You could easily make a lateral move and get a $10k bump with better benefits. The $15-20k+ bumps will require more legwork on your part, and a good fit.
Hang in there until you find the right move for you. Trust me, life gets better when you stop writing essays in the notes to your work papers about things that no one cares about. :)