Choosing the Right Role at EY or PwC for Your Career Goals
Deciding between applying for a position at EY (Ernst Young) or PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) can be a daunting task. Both firms are leaders in the professional services industry, offering a wide array of career opportunities. This article aims to help you identify the most suitable career path based on your background, skills, and career goals. Let's dive into the common areas and roles available at EY and PwC.
Areas and Positions to Consider at EY and PwC
1. Assurance/Audit
The Assurance/Audit department at EY and PwC is a crucial component of financial reporting and compliance. Here are the common roles you might consider:
Audit Associate: Ideal for entry-level candidates, this role focuses on conducting financial audits and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Senior Auditor: Requires significant experience in audit and involves leading audit teams, ensuring thorough and accurate financial reviews.2. Tax
The Tax department deals with various aspects of client taxation. You can explore the following roles:
Tax Associate: This role includes preparing tax returns, researching tax issues, and providing tax advice to clients. Tax Consultant: A more strategic role focusing on tax planning and compliance, requiring a broader understanding of tax laws and regulations.3. Advisory/Consulting
For those with a passion for providing strategic advising to clients, the Advisory/Consulting department is a fitting choice:
Consultant: An entry-level role where you help clients improve their business performances and manage risks. Management Consultant: This position focuses on strategy, operations, and organizational change, requiring a deep understanding of client needs and industry trends.4. Technology and Digital Services
The Technology and Digital Services department offers exciting roles related to data analysis and cybersecurity:
Data Analyst: This role involves analyzing data to support business decisions, requiring strong analytical and technical skills. Cybersecurity Consultant: This position focuses on protecting client information and systems, ensuring robust security measures are in place.5. Transaction Advisory Services
For those interested in financial due diligence and mergers acquisitions, roles in Transaction Advisory Services are suitable:
Transaction Services Associate: This position involves conducting financial due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, ensuring all aspects are thoroughly examined.Considerations for Your Decision
Educational Background: Holding a degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field can make you a strong candidate for roles in audit or tax. Entry-level roles may be more accessible with this background.
Experience: Tailor your application to match your experience level. Entry-level roles are more accessible for recent graduates, while more senior positions are best suited for those with relevant work experience.
Career Goals: Consider where you see yourself in the future. If you are particularly interested in a specific industry or service line, applying to roles within that area can help focus your application.
Steps to Take
Research: Visit the careers pages of EY and PwC to explore available positions and understand the application process.
Networking: Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or other professional networks to gain valuable insights and advice.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job description. Emphasize your transferable skills if applying for a role in which you have less direct experience.
From Non-Big Four to Big Four
Going to work at EY or PwC after earning 7 years of experience outside a Big Four company can indeed be challenging. Here are some key insights:
Big Four Company Culture: The culture at Big Four firms is distinct, and joining after years of experience might not provide the path to a top-level management position. These firms prioritize prior experience within the Big Four when considering candidates.
Subjective Considerations: While they may consider your application, the position you end up in is likely to be more junior. An employee with 10 years of non-Big Four experience was given a Senior Auditor position at one of the Big Four firms, indicating that it is possible but not a guarantee.
Management Positions: For those who persist in applying, the most probable starting position is an Assistant Manager or Senior Auditor. However, career advancement within these firms often requires a combination of relevant experience and internal networking.
In conclusion, while joining EY or PwC after a career outside the Big Four offers unique experiences and insights, it may not guarantee a senior management position. Carefully consider your objectives and tailor your application process accordingly.